The St. LouiS AmericAn
By Ashley Winters
The St. Louis American
Town’s first Black mayor has big plans for historic city
Mayor David Goins is in his second year as leader of the historic Missouri River town, and he tells the St. Louis American there has been a learning curve and proud moments.
He has big plans for “this small yet mighty town.”
“My experience and background prepared me for this role,” said Goins.
He served as an Alton police officer for 25 years, and he’s a retired pastor from Morning Star Missionary Baptist Church, where he led the congregation for 20 years.
Service seems ingrained in him.
Becoming the first Black mayor of a town that is almost 70% white and 24% Black seems surprising in the current racially and politically polarized United States Goins said he understands the “pressure” that comes from his community.
Alton was home to abolitionist Elijah Lovejoy
Keeping cool
Chaeuron Spinks (8) and Audrey Hardie (6) beat the 100-degree heat by keeping cool in a waterfall at the City Garden in St. Louis on Tuesday, July
5. An excessive heat warning has been issued for the St. Louis area as temperatures top out near 100.
Branching out
Little Libraries coming to North St. Louis
By Andrea Y. Henderson
St. Louis Public Radio
Change and Action for Racial Equity and St. Louis Association of Community Organizations are working to promote literacy in north St. Louis by placing tiny libraries north of Delmar Boulevard. The project is part of the Read in Color initiative from the national literacy organization Free Little Libraries, which encourages people to place book boxes in neighborhoods. The initiative aims to provide communities with access to more books by diverse authors. Residents will be able to pick up and drop off
NAACP chapters seek to slam brakes on police chases
By Alvin A. Reid
A deadly 18-day period between April 22 and May 9, 2022, saw seven people killed, two of them children, because of car accidents caused by suspected lawbreakers fleeing police.
This has led the St. Louis and St. Louis County chapters of the NAACP to begin “formal interactions” with area police forces to eliminate this deadly threat to innocent citizens.
“Crashes involving drivers fleeing the police constitute a public safety emergency. It is an urgent, unstable situation where the loss of human life is occurring,” John Bowman, St. Louis County NAACP president, said during a Wednesday press briefing at the county NAACP office where he was joined by Adolphus Pruitt, St. Louis chapter president.
“We are well aware that police throughout the country engage in hundreds of high-speed automobile chases every day. Enough of these result in serious property damage, personal injury, and death to make police pursuit a major public concern.” In response to calls for action, the local branches are working together and seek mediation agreements with city and County police departments “for the adoption and implementation of reforms/ recommendations.”
“We have shared all the information gather to-date with the Justice Department and we are scheduled to start formal interactions with the department this week. Those interactions will consist of both in-person and video conferencing throughout the process,” Bowman said.
Had been named for Confederate officer
Members of Change and Action for Racial Equity, St. Louis Association of Community Organizations and community volunteers place a colorful little library in north St. Louis in June.
names and the
The St. Louis American
Alton Mayor David Goins is sworn in by outgoing Alton City Clerk Mary Boulds in April 2021, with his wife, Sheila, on the steps of Alton City Hall.
Photo courtesy of Goins for Mayor
John Bowman
Photo by Bill Greenblatt / St. Louis American
Photo courtesy of Chande and Action for Racial Equity
Rihanna gets the bag
Rihanna has replaced Kim Kardashian as the youngest self-made billionaire woman in the US.
The 34-year-old singer recently ranked 21st on Forbes‘ annual list of America’s wealthiest self-made women, making the list for the third year in a row. On the list, she is the only bil lionaire who is under 40.
Kardashian, 41, the second-youngest bil lionaire on the Forbes list, has a net worth of $1.8 billion.
The majority of Rihanna’s $1.4 bil lion net worth comes from her lucra tive music career. The remainder comes from her business ventures, including Fenty Beauty, Fenty Skin, and Savage X Fenty.
Bloomberg reported in March that Rihanna’s Savage X Fenty lingerie company was working with advisors on an IPO. The company will be valued at $3 billion or more.
Additionally, the ninetime Grammy Award winner owns 50% of Fenty Beauty, generating $550 million in sales in 2020. The remaining
stake in the company is held by the French luxury fashion conglomerate LVMH. In 2019, Rihanna told The New York Times, “I never thought I’d make this much money, so a number is not going to stop me from working.”
Fireworks flying between Celtics star Jayson Tatum and Grammy-winning Ella Mai?
The R&B British sensation Ella , 27, and Boston Celtics St. Louisan star Jayson Tatum, 24, appear to be generating good vibrations together clip from the 4th of The couple, who are rumored to be dating, attended Billionaire mogul Michael Rubin’s 4th of July party dressed in all-white. The dating talk began when Mai was spotted at Tatum’s home in October
Though Mai and Tatum have been discreet about their possible romantic relationship, neither has uttered a word publicly about the status of their relationship, leaving much to the imagination and speculation of
their excited fans. Mai, a singer of Jamaican and Irish heritage, is known for her 2018 Grammy Award winning hit “Boo’d Up.” The song has almost 800 million views and streams on YouTube and Spotify.
Big Boi and his wife of 20 years divorce
More and more celebs are saying goodbye to their marriage commitments and saying hello to the divorced world. Big Boi from Outkast and Sherlita Patton are the latest couple to call it quits, after 20 years of marriage.
Court records show the divorce was finalized in June, which makes a fast process after Big Boi filed in April.
Baller Alert reports his filing said there was “no reasonable hope of reconciliation” between him and Sherlita, who were already separated and living apart.
The ex-couple reached a postnuptial agreement in 2016 to evenly distribute their assets. They also negotiated a confidential settlement for a smooth process. They’ve also chosen to remain confidential about their financial affairs.
Both individuals discussed not making threats to each other following their divorce proceedings.
Sherlita first filed for divorce from Big Boi in 2013 and asked for full custody and
alimony payments. Big Boi claimed he would put up a good fight, but they eventually reconciled.
Diddy dotes over Yung Miami’s sweet BET Awards sign
The BET Awards tribute to Sean “Diddy” Combs had everyone at home and in the audience hype. It took us down memory lane reciting Combs’ iconic lyrics along with also seeing many special guests including Lil Kim and Mary J. Blige join the party. One person who was visibly impressed was Yung Miami, who stood front and center in the first row. By now, most folks know about Miami and Diddy’s relationship, if you don’t you clearly have been living under a rock. The Bad Boy entertainment exec and Quality Control-signed rapper have been having fun for quite some time now.
Miami proudly held up a “GO PAPI” sign which left the internet talking. Some poked fun at her for holding it, but her lover showed support for it. To share his appreciation for Miami’s doting sign he shared a sweet Instagram message.
“This is one of the sweetest things anyone’s ever done for me! Thank you Shawty Wop! [praying hands emoji] @yungmiami305.” Combs wrote.
Sources: Baller Alert, CNBC, Hot New Hip Hop
Rihanna
“We
Congresswoman Barbara Lee (D. California)
College
By Ashley Winters
The St. Louis American
Throughout the years the College Hill neighborhood in north St. Louis has been neglected, with abandoned buildings, and dilapidated homes, and the lack of revenue has left this community overlooked and undervalued.
But Fred Kimbrough, executive director of the nonprofit College Hill Foundation, has plans to bring College Hill back to its past splendor with beautiful homes, playgrounds, and a safe community.
“The biggest part of what we are trying to do is beautification,” said Kimbrough.
organization folded. However, the organization had already leveled four abandoned houses and had empty lots ready for new development, so the organization transferred the property to the foundation. Kimbrough has not hesitated in making changes to the community of College Hill, and the lavender farm is just one.
n “The biggest part of what we are trying to do is beautification ”
- Fred Kimbrough executive director of College Hill Foundation
Kimbrough has been working in the College Hill neighborhood for 10 years, he started out with the Lutheran Housing Support organization which partnered with the College Hill Foundation on many neighborhood projects revitalizing the community. Unfortunately, the Lutheran Housing Support
During a meeting, members of the foundation came up with various ideas of how to use these empty lots, but because funding was not available to build houses, they needed to come up with something that the community could sustain.
Collectively they chose growing lavender.
“We started with 100 plants, and now we have 4,000 plants,” said Kimbrough. He says the foundation supplies lavender to Long Row Lavender, Dierbergs, and Baisch & Skinner.
“I really didn’t realize the demand for it,” said Kimbrough. Sales from the lavender
go back into the community of College Hill, this includes home repairs, building a new playground, and things needed to help keep this area moving forward in the revitalization plans. There are about 25,000 vacant properties citywide.
Also, the foundation started a new golfing program for youth in the neighborhood, “Golf is typically something
our kids in the city don’t get a chance to participate in,” said Kimbrough.” “It gives these kids an opportunity to do something and to learn something different.”
He says the program has been well received, and both kids and parents are excited to have it. He plans to make it a year-round program after the first year.
Kimbrough says the founda-
tion is looking to expand beautifying College Hill towards the south of Blair Avenue to make the lavender farm a bigger business and hire people in the community to manage it.
He’s hoping to get the housing development program up and running again rehabbing homes, and adding new development for affordable housing and rental properties.
“ If we invest in our-
selves, we can have positive results and outcomes,” said Kimbrough.
He says we all have the ability to effect change, as long as we work together.
“Look at your community from a different perspective, believe that things can change,” said Kimbrough.
Fred Kimbrough, executive director of the nonprofit College Hill Foundation, has plans to bring College Hill back to its past splendor with beautiful homes, playgrounds, and a safe community. This includes growing lavender.
Photo by Wiley Price / St. Louis American
“Faith and belief in all aspects of our republic and its founding branches of government is eroding at a dangerous pace. And with good reason.”
What did you celebrate on Fourth of July?
By Janice Ellis
As we paused to celebrate the birth of our nation, it was a time to seriously reflect on the state of its health and well-being. The greatest problems we face, while troubling, are not rising inflation, high gas prices, nor rampant gun violence. There is a deeper sickness growing in our land that threatens the very existence of our way of life.
A majority of Americans believe our very democracy is at risk of being dismantled and destroyed.
We stand at the precipice of whether we want to continue to improve upon this democratic republic that is unique to America. Or, whether we are willing to abandon or destroy the principles, laws and institutions on which it was founded and has thus far survived and thrived.
While it is an imperfect union, it is still a good union with so many invaluable and satisfying individual and collective rights and benefits.
However, slowly but surely, we have allowed the deadly germs of lies, partisan political agendas and the unquenchable thirst to hang on to personal power to take an unhealthy hold in our country.
These destructive, and potentially deadly, forces if not stopped could change what Independence Day celebrations will mean going forward.
We could be celebrating a very different America, or no United States of America at all.
Faith and belief in all aspects of our republic and its founding branches of government is eroding at a dangerous pace. And with good reason.
preserve, protect, and advance the union.
It takes honest, committed and capable leaders at every branch of government putting the will and business of the people ahead of their own selfish interests, money, or the special interest groups that supported their campaigns.
The needs of the people who voted for them should be their priority.
But it is up to the people to demand that they do so, and then hold them accountable.
Given the state of our nation today, the outcomes of the upcoming mid-term elections loom large.
If you want to stop the destructive lies, stop the disrespect for the laws and institutions that have sustained this nation for nearly 250 years, then you must vote anyone out of office who advances and participates in behavior that try to destroy them.
Instead, vote for those candidates who will rebuild, unify, and keep America moving in the right direction. It is up to voting citizens to reclaim America, preserve and protect our way of life.
It is worth pondering the preamble to the Constitution: We the People of the United States, in order to form a more perfect union, establish justice, insure domestic tranquility, provide for the common defense, promote the general Welfare, and secure the blessings of liberty to ourselves and our posterity, do ordain and establish this Constitution for the United States of America.
And let us not forget the Pledge of Allegiance, the Declaration of Independence.
Their meaning looms larger than ever.
As I See It - A Forum for Community Issues
We need solutions, not more excuses
By Darisha Parker
Here we are again. Today, yesterday, two weeks ago, last month, last year and how many years past?
Gun violence. Mental health issues. We keep talking about it. We keep talking around it. Yet nothing is done. Nothing.
Waiting for consensus. Waiting for compromise. Waiting.
At what point do we realize that every measure that addresses the list of guns available to the public, increasing mental health issues that are plaguing our citizens – with neither issue decreasing, slowing down or stopping – could potentially save lives?
My point is this: any measure addressing these issues could be a move in the right direction. Any measure will be more than what we have now which is nothing.
Yes, the conversation is larger than just a couple of bills. But gun violence and mental health have touched every corner of the commonwealth. So, essentially, it touches every life in those corners as well.
for boots-on-the-ground organizations that deal with gun violence daily, and properly invest in our neighborhood schools regardless of zip code. We could increase investments in our recreation centers, programs for after school activities and stipends for men and women in zip codes plagued by poverty and violence
Let’s face it, COVID changed everything. The normal activities we were used to and those that helped us stay integrated in our communities went out the window with the pandemic.
Many of us are afraid to leave our homes for fear of illness. It just keeps coming. Wave after wave of variants to this coronavirus keep popping up leaving folks anxious, frazzled and depressed.
n Some things we can do include raising the age to access guns, banning assault weapons, and funding mental health positions in schools.
porch having a morning cup of coffee because you don’t know if it will be the last time you do. The constant threat of gun violence is pressing, even suffocating. And that, coupled with the pandemic, has set us on a path that is unsustainable. There is no conflict resolution, no forgiveness, no grace and kindness, all things we learn in that religious space. We live in a world where highend lifestyles are glorified and everyone believes they deserve everything – that they deserve all they can get, be, and do. Yet who is glorifying neighborly kindness, safe streets where our little children play, clean schools where our children learn? Why is it that we need weapons made for war to live on our streets? Why do we need to provide access to that? I don’t believe anyone thinks we do, but this notion that it will chip away at law abiding citizens’ rights to access other guns is ludicrous. It is a rally cry from the NRA and a false narrative that is killing this state and our country.
Not only have the persistent fraudulent claims — from political leaders of the executive and legislative branches of our government — that the 2020 presidential election was stolen led to a violent seditious insurrection on the United States Capitol, but it has also created deep division among the American people that seems irreparable.
It does not stop there.
The judicial branch of our government appears to be forfeiting its role as independent arbiter on matters of the intent of the Constitution, and instead has become an extension of partisan politics, using its power to enshrine special interests’ agendas.
Where have the checks and balances, so critical to the survival of the republic, gone?
How do we arrest and clean up the detrimental blurred lines between the executive, legislative and judicial branches of our government?
It is not too late.
While we might feel disgusted, tired of it all, fearful and powerless, we still can stop the destructive course we are on.
We elected the people whose actions or inactions have gotten us to this unhealthy state of where we find ourselves.
We can also un-elect them.
Traditionally, we have put more importance on the presidential elections. While the president is an important and symbolic representation of what the nation stands for, the office alone cannot
A new Gallop poll shows that patriotism is at an all-time low. How do we get our collective patriotic groove back?
We would do well to review and think on the great ideal and goals on which the country was founded.
We can continue to work at making it a more perfect union if we only choose to.
It is so easy to get caught up in the base, the negativity of selfish interests, which if unchecked inevitably leads to harm and destruction of what is decent and in the best interest of the common good.
Why proceed on a course that puts our republic at risk or could destroy it rather than build on how far we have come?
What is the end game if we stay on the divisive and destructive course we are on? Do you like what you see happening to America?
As citizens we enjoy something unique in the country. How can we sit by and let it be changed for the worse or destroyed?
July 4th celebrations should be more than fireworks, picnics and parades. Why, and what, did you celebrate on Independence Day?
Do you want to continue?
Janice Ellis has lived and worked in Missouri for more than three decades, analyzing educational, political, social and economic issues across race, ethnicity, age and socio-economic status.
Some things we can do include raising the age to access guns, banning assault weapons, and funding mental health positions in schools.
We could increase funding
Then, when there seems to be a break and we can resume our lives, we have the constant barrage of gun violence that sets us back yet again and keeps us in our homes. It’s bad for our mental health, it’s bad for the economy, it’s bad for our cities and it’s bad for our neighborhoods.
You fear sitting on your front
Commentary
Now isn’t the time to continue to disagree — today we’re demanding you get your acts together. We need serious plans for serious solutions. Parents and guardians — if you have a repeat offender in your residence, please call local, state or national authorities anonymously. You can help curb the tide of repeated violence in our neighborhoods. We can’t just lay down, waiting for this to end.
Pennsylvania state Rep. Darisha Parker represents Northwest Philadelphia
Dems were asleep as SCOTUS nightmare began
By Aswad Walker
The U.S. Supreme Court has gone wild.
business can release into the atmosphere.
With Justice Clarence Thomas and a majority of conservatives, the Supreme Court has made several twisted moves to undermine the will of the people it serves.
During the final weeks of its 202222 session, the court voted to:
Ease gun access in New York, a ruling that could ease gun access nationally, even as most U.S. citizens of all races (Democrat and Republican; progressive and conservatives) want more gun restrictions. Overturn Roe v. Wade even though over 75% of the nation believe in a woman’s choice, whatever it may be, to exercise authority over her own body.
Excuse police from having to read you your Miranda Rights (“You have the right to remain silent. Anything you say can and will be used against you in a court of law”), freeing up police to inflict more abuse on us with even less restrictions, even as the country demands police be held accountable for wrongdoings, just like we would if we broke the law.
Restrict the Environmental Protection Agency from determining the levels of poison
This is the most political SCOTUS ever, and it’s acting consistently with the Jan. 6 insurrectionists who sought to replace democracy with minority (white, hyper-conservative) rule. And this SCOTUS isn’t done yet.
For years, I led missionary trips for my church that meant long hours on the road with a carload of fellow missionaries.
n This is the most political SCOTUS ever, and it’s acting consistently with the Jan. 6 insurrectionists who sought to replace democracy with minority (white, hyper-conservative) rule. And this SCOTUS isn’t done yet.
As team leader, I did the bulk of the driving.
But when I got tired, someone else would take over while I caught some ZZZs in the backseat. But on more than one occasion, while sleep in the backseat, I’d wake up in total terror thinking I had gone asleep at the wheel and put my team in danger. The reality was, I hadn’t, but it felt real.
Well, Democrats really are asleep at the wheel, and have been for far too long. And they’ve put us all in danger. They haven’t acted with the
urgency these dangerous times demand, choosing to focus and campaign on “kitchen table issues.” But there won’t be a kitchen or a table if these fools who want to overthrow democracy with violence on all levels aren’t stopped. If Dems want to win elections and excite their base, they must wake the hell up soon, or we’re all crashing.
Playing the long game
That said, we (people who stand against the dictatorial, violent program of the modern-day GOP confederacy) must play the long game. The overturning of Roe v. Wade is a prime example of folk who are anti-everyone who’s not them, playing the long game. They’ve been talking about overturning Roe v. Wade forever and suffered setback after setback for decades. But they stayed true to their plan, even voting for candidates they personally hated, but who were committed to their same goal. Now, they’ve won, and are looking to overturn everything else on their list. In contrast, if we don’t see results immediately from those we elect, we quit voting for good. I’m not saying we shouldn’t expect results in exchange for our votes. We should. But we’ve also got to commit to fighting until the fight is won. That’s the long game.
Aswad Walker is Houston Defender Network associate editor
Guest Columnist Darisha Parker
Guest Columnist Aswad Walker
Guest Columnist Janice Ellis
Morgan, owner of Xeo Air in East St. Louis, is one of 20 Black small business owners awarded a $25,000 grant from the Coalition to Back Black Businesses. Xeo
East St. Louis company awarded $25K from CBBB
St. Louis American Staff
Despite the ongoing pandemic, labor shortage, and rising costs, the Coalition to Back Black Businesses offers funding and mentorship opportunities to aid Black small business owners in flourishing through entrepreneurship.
According to The U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation, CBBB recently awarded 20 Black-owned small businesses with a $25,000 grant to help support their funds and resources. 45% of the recipients launched their business during the pandemic, 80% are women-owned and 85% have six or fewer employees.
“Employing nearly half of the U.S. workforce, the strength of small businesses is critical to the prosperity of our communities and our economic recovery,” said Carolyn Cawley, president of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation.
“We’re committed to supporting the needs of Black small business owners in America through our Coalition to Back Black Businesses and equipping them with tools to thrive.”
Bronwyn Morgan, the owner of Xeo Air in East St. Louis, Illinois, is one of the small business owners benefitting from the grant. Xeo Air is an outsourced AI-based drone service for enterprise inspection and mapping.
“The enhancement grant will support us with crucial costs to propel our growth forward for 2022, including hiring more pilots, investing in SEO marketing, web platform improvements, rent, and more,” Morgan said.
Created in September 2020 by the U.S. Chamber Foundation, founding partner American Express, and four leading national Black business organizations – the National Black Chamber of Commerce, National Business League, U.S. Black Chambers, Inc., and Walker’s Legacy–the CBBB initiative is designed to render rapid financial assistance and mentorship opportunities to elevate the Black business community. CBBB has awarded grants to 1,091 Black-owned small businesses in 40 states since its inception.
“We proudly back small businesses because they are the backbone of communities across the country,” said Madge Thomas, head of corporate sustainability and president of the American Express Foundation. “In the second year of this program, we welcome the chance to continue to help Black-owned businesses recover from the pandemic, innovate, and grow.”
Find a full list of the winners here, webackblackbusinesses.com/recipients-2022. Applications for the fall 2022 cohort will open in August. For more information on eligibility and the application process, visit webackblackbusinesses.com
Reparations are next up
By Julianne Malveaux
Juneteenth, or June 19, was marked with fireworks, concerts, parades, and proclamations, a big difference from Juneteenth a year ago when President Joe Biden signed the executive order making Juneteenth a federal holiday just two days before its actual occurrence.
Corporations and other organizations are observing or commemorating Juneteenth. I was surprised, for example, by receiving notices of Juneteenth observations from not one but two of the financial services organizations I deal with.
A White man at the airport wished me a “Happy Juneteenth,” and while I somewhat appreciated his greeting, it didn’t make me happy, mainly because I don’t think the word “Happy” should be applied to Juneteenth.
Big Dot of Happiness, a company out of Wisconsin, has produced cringe-worthy ”Happy Juneteenth” greeting cards. An online search will yield all kinds of products, many presumably not owned by Black people, commercializing Juneteenth with t-shirts, stickers, stationery, and more.
Many who heard the announcement in Galveston back in 1865 were elated, some were angry at being exploited, and some understood that the quality of their lives was not to change immediately or soon. Jim Crow laws, peonage and the sharecropping system, and economic lynching emerged immediately after the passage of the 13th Amendment.
The holiday observation of Juneteenth is a vital way to inject the issue of enslavement into the popular lexicon, if only once a year. But the holiday transcends symbolism only if coupled with decisive action to combat contemporary economic exploitation and virulent racism. President Biden set the right tone when he issued a proclamation a few days before Juneteenth.
He described the day as “a chance to celebrate human freedom, reflect on the grievous and ongoing legacy of slavery, and rededicate ourselves to rooting out the systemic racism that continues to plague our society as we strive to deliver the full promise of America to every American.
This Juneteenth, we were freshly reminded that the poisonous ideology of racism has not yet been defeated — it only hides. Now that the fireworks have faded, the barbeque has been digested, and the red soda water has been consumed, President Biden might do more to attack the hidden, and not so hidden, ideology of racism.
Has his administration sufficiently tackled pay disparities in federal employment? On Equal Pay Day 2022, the Biden-Harris Administration issued a forceful pay equity statement. Yet, gaps remain, and many are the result of the hidden racism that Biden referred to in his Juneteenth statement.
African Americans are more likely than others to work for the federal government and experience smaller pay gaps with the federal government than in the private sector. At the same time, pay gaps remain, and Black employees are more likely to be clerical workers in the federal government than employed in the Senior Executive Service.
Connecting the Juneteenth proclamation to a strong statement about economic equity in federal government employment would have been impactful.
There are still opportunities for this focus, perhaps incorporating a statement about workers’ rights with a strong message about Black federal workers. HR 40, the legislation to study reparations and offer remedies for economic discrimination against Black people, has enough votes to pass the House of Representatives. Still, it cannot pass the Senate, given its current composition.
President Biden has been urged to, through an executive order, establish an HR 40 Commission to examine the reparations issue thoroughly. He could do this with the simple stroke of a pen, putting action behind the strong words he issued on Juneteenth. By embracing reparations to remedy historic racial economic exploitation, President Biden puts teeth behind his lofty sentiments about hidden racism.
The federal observation of Juneteenth is an important step forward in our nation’s recognition of enslavement and its foundational contribution to the wealth of this country. Reparations are the necessary next step. We must move from recognition to remedy.
Dr. Julianne Malveaux is an economist, author, and Dean of the College of Ethnic Studies at Cal State LA.
Bronwyn
Air is an outsourced AI-based drone service for enterprise inspection and mapping.
Photo courtesy of Bronwyn Morgan
Bronwyn Morgan
Julianne Malveaux
and his progressive newspaper, The Alton Telegraph. On November 7, 1837 he was shot and killed by a pro-slavery mob. The Telegraph’s printing press was reportedly thrown in the nearby river.
While Goins is not facing that type of danger, he knows it is important to keep his record clean.
“A key is not giving anyone any ammunition to go after my integrity,” he said.
“The citizens of Alton are my priority.”
During his first year in office, Goins has revitalized Alton’s “Broadway Corridor,” with a project to repair infrastructure and attract businesses to the area near downtown.
Another major challenge he inherited was the town’s budget. The city had bank accounts that had not been reconciled since 2020 - and Alton was in debt. He has addressed both problems and the city now boasts a balanced budget.
In 2021 Alton had one AfricanAmerican police officer, and Goins has added two Black officers since his election. Alton also now has its first Black public works director, and first Black administrative assistant to the mayor.
“When you are doing something that is your passion, it’s not work, it’s your calling,” said Goins.
Goins says he plans to make Alton the ‘It’ city, and he wants to attract people from St. Louis and other towns in Illinois to come to Alton. And through the revitalization of
Libraries
Continued from A1
gently used books at one of four pop-up libraries in north St. Louis neighborhoods north of Delmar Boulevard — Covenant Blu, Vandeventer, Lewis Place and West End. In the coming months, six more small libraries will be placed in the Fountain Park, Academy and Visitation Park neighborhoods.
The two organizations began building the libraries in January
the Liberty Bank Amphitheater on the riverfront, Goins hopes to attract more visitors to the town.
Award winning R&B group Boyz II Men is scheduled for August 21, 2022, and the Alton Wine Jazz Festival is set for Sept. 3, 2022.
The revitalization began with Goins forming the RiverFront Commission, and Alton partnered with the Great Rivers and Routes tourism organization. Through a $10 million grant, he wants to create “Alton Port” on the riverfront, where visitors can go fishing, kayaking, and biking.
“I want to create more activity in Alton, I’m trying to do things to attract people to visit,” said Goins.
With the help of the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds, Goins has $20 million to invest in his community.
He said improving city government efficiency will come first, then the remaining funds will be designated to help with loss of revenue from the pandemic. This will include essential services and community facilities.
Goins recently partnered with East St. Louis and the Southern Illinois University Edwardsville (S.I.U.E) Community Collaboration and received a grant to acquire body cameras for police officers.
While the next election will not be held until 2025, Goins plans on running for a second term.
“There is still more work that needs to be done, and I can’t finish it all in one term,” he said.
Being the first Black mayor of Alton is a part of his legacy. He said he plans on “leaving his thumbprint” so that future mayors can follow his lead in making Alton a better town.
with help from volunteers from the St. Louis Arts Chamber, AmeriCorps and other groups. Each colorful book drop can hold about 10 books. The St. Louis educational nonprofit Ready Readers donated 300 adult and children’s books to stock the library’s shelves. Residents are encouraged to take a book and replace it with another one.
The tiny libraries are the coalition’s way of helping reduce educational inequality, said Kisha Greenidge-Kader, founder of Change and Action for Racial Equity.
“Our goal for these little free libraries really is to encourage literacy in these neighborhoods, inspire kids and families to be lifelong learners and readers,” Greenidge-Kader said.
The community organizations and Change and Action for Racial Equity decided to work on the project to help areas north of Delmar Boulevard that have long suffered from inequality, little investment and vacant homes.
Research shows that children who are not proficient in reading before starting fourth grade are more likely to drop
out of school.
About 15% of Black third grade students in the St. Louis Public Schools District tested proficient or advanced in reading, according to the 2019 data from the Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education.
The tiny libraries likely will not end systemic disparities in education, but placing reading materials in the neighborhoods could give children a boost, volunteers say.
“Hopefully people will read the books and parents will be able to get their kids off
of those computers and those iPhones and get them outdoors where they can use the resource,” said Judith Arnold, program director and urban planner for the community organizations.
Educators say many children in low-income neighborhoods face challenges to becoming avid readers. Some do not have transportation to libraries.
Others often do not read at grade level, which can make children feel uncomfortable reading to themselves or aloud.
Arnold and GreenidgeKader hope the little libraries
will reduce barriers to literacy and promote book ownership.
“We can no longer afford to work in silos and work by ourselves,” Arnold said. “We have to all work in unity together on projects, we have to raise money together, we have to look at the seven neighborhoods as one group.” By the end of the year, Change and Action for Racial Equity plans to place 50 free, tiny libraries across St. Louis and St. Louis County in neighborhoods that have a lot of vacant homes and are not close to public libraries.
When David Goins was running for mayor of Alton in 2021, his constant campaign companion was his wife, Sheila.
Photo courtesy of Goins for Mayor
development of a districtwide building renaming policy applicable for all schools.
Kennard was temporarily renamed Classical Junior Academy in August 2020.
The late Betty McNeal Wheeler, an education pioneer associated with the founding of Metro High School, had her name submitted as part of a list from a petition started by parents. Pending the Wheeler family’s acceptance of this honor, the south St. Louis Magnet school will carry the new name
“The elementary school, one of the bast in the state, now has a name, everyone can be proud of and that sets the tone for more of the positive changes we all to want to see in our world,” said SLPS Superintendent Kelvin Adams.
Alumni of Enright CJA and Metro High School wrote in a nomination letter, “Betty McNeal Wheeler dedicated her life to excellence in education, particularly in the St. Louis Public Schools. After teaching at Gundlach Elementary, the Northside Reading Clinic, and Yeatman Elementary, she started Metro High School.”
“Wheeler led Metro straight into the record books, with test scores that challenge even the most prestigious private schools. Metro is a public school with a proven history of cultivating exceptional students and a culture of inclusion.”
The letter said students and staff were free to call her “Betty,” adding that “she ensured that we all felt like family to her, and to each other.
Police
Continued from A1
“While we will strive to be as transparent as possible; what details we will share relative to our interactions with the Justice Department (if any) will be determined in consultation with the department.”
Bowman said the organizations were contacted by both victims and the family of victims injured or killed because of a vehicle pursuit.
“Police chases have killed nearly as many people as justifiable police shootings, and federally funded high-tech systems that would obviate chases, such as vehicle tracking devices, are undeveloped or rarely used due to cost,” he said
National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (HTSA)
“We had those difficult, open, and honest, all-school conversations about race, equity, diversity, and inclusion. She treated us with respect and expected us to do the same of our peers and the staff.”
Wheeler died in 2011, and her St. Louis American obituary said she founded Metro “the “school without
research shows that 13,108 people were killed in police chases nationwide in 38-year period ending in 2019 – nearly one a day.
The NAACP chapters are also reviewing a 2021 criminal justice reform bill that was passed in Washington state that restricts any police department’s ability to pursue. Police now must witness a suspect leaving the scene of a crime, or believe the suspect presents an immediate threat to public safety, to have probable cause to pursue their vehicle.
Other facts shared on Wednesday include:
• A Justice Departmentfunded 1998 study found after interviewing fleeing drivers that 32% drove off because they were in a stolen car, 27% because they had a suspended driver’s license, 27% wanted to avoid arrest and 21% because
walls,” in 1972, based on innovative schools that she’d read about in Chicago, Philadelphia and Brooklyn, N.Y.
“The school focused on college-bound juniors and seniors. In addition to its shortage of walls and classrooms, it didn’t have bells announcing class changes, athletic facilities, or many other resources.”
they were driving drunk.
• The average police trainee received 72 hours of weapons training compared to 40 hours of driving training, only a portion of which covered chases, according to a 2006 Justice Department study of police training academies.
Mrs. Wheeler also fostered a culture that surrounded the school. There was the “Metro Hug” that she gave students, or Metroites. There was an informality-she asked students to call her by her first name and many teachers followed suit. She also gave students her home phone number.
But she also could be
• Chases have been left behind in the modernization of police equipment that is now moving toward outfitting officers with body cameras.
President Obama in December proposed $75 million in federal funds to buy 50,000 body cameras in the effort to “build and
fiercely protective.
In 1995, while trying to keep four “street punks” and three students apart, when one of them reached around her to try to hit a student, she hit the attacker in the face.
“I don’t let anybody treat one of my students wrong,” Mrs. Wheeler said about the incident in a 1996 profile.
In that article, Mrs.
sustain trust” between police and communities
• Police use of Tasers, body armor, cameras and computers in patrol cars has soared, Justice Department reports show. In 2007, 90% of police worked for a department that used portable computers. In
Harris Stowe State University’s Terry Davis, dean for the College of Arts and Sciences, with Dr. Carmel Martin Fairey, assistant professor of biology, watch as student Harris-Mariah Robinson, (center), Bilikis Oladimeji MD, MMCi Senior Director of Clinical Informatics and Innovation for Optum Health’s Center for Advanced Clinical Solutions (CACS), HSSU math instructor Davis Barns and student Nadia Savage look to evaluate the replication and sequence of a DNA model.
Wheeler said, “I’ve always told everyone that Metro is my life.”
Mrs. Wheeler told students:
“‘You were hand-selected to be here. You will not fail,’ “said Steve Hinchcliff, a member of the first graduating class and past president of the alumni association.
“And it was true. Very few people failed.”
1990, that figure was 30%. The principal “technology” for chases is tire spikes — two decades old and seldom used because police must know where a fleeing car is heading so they can pull a strip of spikes across a road.
Photo by Wiley Price / St. Louis American
Services for human rights activist Edna Harden on July 9
St. Louis American staff
Edna “Hedy” Harden passed away on June 23, 2022. Hedy was born on May 14, 1944 in St. Louis, MO to the late Howard and Louise (Butler) Camp. She attended DeAndreis High School and received her B.S. degree in Biology from the University of Missouri-St. Louis.
Hedy was a human rights activist and was committed to improving the lives of Missouri’s prisoners and empowering their families. She was the long-time chair of Missouri Citizens for the Rehabilitation of Errants (Missouri CURE). She was co-editor of the Missouri CURE newsletter. She was an avid supporter of several organizations including the Organization for Black Struggle.
vestri, proceeded her in death along with siblings Joan, Mike, Joe and David. She leaves to celebrate her life stepdaughters Natasha Nicole Hurd and Donyell Brown; grandchildren Tyrie and Tyjah Powell, and Tyden Johnson; siblings Howard, Mary, Jim, Carol and Judy; special friend Keith Brown El; and a host of friends and human rights allies.
Edna “Hedy” Harden
A memorial service will be held at 1 p.m., Saturday, July 9, 2022, at the Ambassador Event Hall, 9800 Halls Ferry Road, St. Louis, Missouri 63136. In lieu of flowers, donations are encouraged to continue the work of Missouri CURE. Checks or money orders can be sent to Missouri CURE, PO Box 28931, Kansas City, MO 63132.
Hedy’s only son, Robert Sil-
SLDC receives $1 million Brownfields grant
St. Louis American staff
Representatives from St. Louis Development Corporation (SLDC) recently accepted a $1 million check from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to be used to provide four loans and subgrants to support cleanup activities.
In May 2022, the Biden administration — through the EPA — announced that the City of St. Louis was one of 265 communities selected to receive $1 million from the $254.5 million in Brownfields grants.
The Brownfields grants are supported by President Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, which provides a total of $1.5 billion to advance environmental justice, spur economic revitalization and create jobs by cleaning up contaminated, polluted, or hazardous Brownfield properties.
Grant funds also will be used to market the revolving loan fund, oversee cleanup activities, and conduct community engagement activities.
Activities will focus on northern neighborhoods or central commercial corridors in the city. Priority sites are old, vacant buildings that include a former cleaning and dye operation, a former glass company, and other buildings with a history of industrial use.
St. Louis part of cohort St. Louis is also one of five communities to make up the inaugural Equity Communities Cohort,. Which was developed by the International Economic Development Council (IEDC).
The cohorts are part of the Equitable Economic Devel-
cepted a
opment Playbook Initiative, launched in May 2021. It examines structural racism in economic development and promote equitable practices and standards, both in the postpandemic recovery and over the long term.
The multi-year project will culminate in a toolkit publication and on-the-ground technical assistance for communities to work on Equity Action Plans.
The five organizations that form part of IEDC’s Equity Communities Cohort will be engaged for a year to receive technical assistance through on-the-ground visits, webinars,
and cohort check-ins and create an Equity Action Plan based on their local needs and challenges.
“Ensuring economic development efforts support shared prosperity for a wide range of stakeholders must be undertaken with intentionality. IEDC is excited to begin working with our inaugural Equity Communities Cohort,” says Todd Greene, IEDC chair and executive director of WorkRise and Institute fellow at the Urban Institute.
“Together, we will develop and implement equitable economic development ideas within these five communities.
This initiative will allow us to work alongside these communities and develop strategies that promote equitable policies, practices, and standards that will inform the economic development field.”
“SLDC is thrilled to be a part of the IEDC’s Equity Communities Cohort. As we work on our Economic Justice Action Plan, we believe this will enhance our opportunities to create strategies to improve policies and developments in North St. Louis on an equitable basis that implement change,” said Daffney Moore, SLDC chief of staff.
Photo courtesy of SLDA
Neal Richardson, executive director and Daffney Moore, chief of staff, recently ac-
$1 million check on behalf of SLDC from Environmental Protection Agency Regional Administrator Meg McCollister and Deputy Regional Administrator Edward Chu prior to a St. Louis Cardinals game.
Dueker? Voters hardly know her
As
St. Louis
In recent weeks, St. Louis County Councilman Mark Harder announced that he “somehow” acquired
of County
of
Calvin Harris engaged in a sexual act with a woman inside a county office. According to County Councilwoman Lisa Clancy, Harder received the video via email from county executive candidate and current State Representative Shamed Dogan (R - Ballwin).
While Dogan has failed to account for how he managed to obtain a private tape of two consenting adults who did not consent to his acquisition of said tape, somehow - some way - the St. Louis Post-Dispatch wants to create an absolute worst kind of political scandal:
Once again, the PostDispatch has exposed a young woman, without her consent, to public attention and scrutiny regarding an intimate act, the recording of which happened without her consent. One wonders whether victims ever mattered to the Post-Dispatch Editorial Board?
But instead of questioning how Dogan got the tape - which may possibly implicate Dogan in committing a Class D felony in obtaining it - the often vindictive Editorial Board even went so far as to call the non-scandal a “generous gift” to - of all people - Jane Dueker, the perennial police lobbyist and the Democratic county executive candidate challenging incumbent County Executive Dr. Sam Page Political insiders have viewed
Dueker (far from being a serious candidate as rather a weak candidate due to her considerable personal political baggage) as a “ringer,” or a weaker Democratic opponent, for Republican Dogan to face in the November general election.
How is a video tape - likely illegally obtained - of two consenting adults engaged in intercourse (the conduct itself was wrong) a “gift” for anyone, when the situation seems to involve the strongest Republican county executive candidate with the felonious invasion of privacy of a victim who says she did not consent to the recording in the first place? Dogan has joined the non-stop opposition to Page, much of it let by former St. Louis County Police Chief Fitch and his political minions. This latest attempt to smear Page seems to come out of far right Republican Fitch’s playbook as does much of the Dueker/ Dogan campaign against Page.
This unfortunate situation is far from Dueker’s first desperate attempt to leverage a sensitive situation for her political gain. Our readers will recall Dueker’s dupe from earlier this year, when she launched a failed publicity campaign against the City of St. Louis at a domestic violence victim’s expense. But Dueker has been wrapped up worse since parting ways with her former boss, convicted former county executive Steve Stenger The stench on Dueker’s
résumé after her service to Stenger has left little to be desired by voters: including a stint advising Rex Sinquefield’s failed Better Together project; working for Kingdom Principles, a right-wing lobbying firm, to eliminate protections for sexual assault victims at Missouri colleges; and her unmitigated support for the distrustful St. Louis Police Officers Association and its former notorious racist-inchief, Jeff Roorda
That’s certainly not an employment history that demonstrates the leadership experience necessary to lead the largest county in the State of Missouri in the midst of both public health and human rights crises.
But Dueker’s biggest problem? Her entire career rests on the laurels of lesser men. She sadly has no major legislative accomplishments of her own to promote. Considering her paid legal fight against an increased minimum wage, what has Dueker done for the working class? The overwhelming majority of labor unions and building trades have sided with Page. We still remember Dueker’s scrambling to help Stenger support his false claim that the Northwest Plaza office lease deal “saved” more than $10 million for St. Louis County taxpayers, when it was instead a sweetheart deal for two of his biggest donors.
Her measured defense of maskless anti-science extremists who stormed County Council meetings and hurled racist epithets at former County Public Health Director Dr. Faisal Khan - what good has that done for frontline workers
facing the real impact of the COVID pandemic? Doctors, nurses, and other medical professionals enthusiastically support Page’s re-election. As a stern rebuke to St. Louis for the backward thinking that enabled the political hatchet job on Khan, he was appointed, after a national search, to be the next public health director of Seattle/King County, an agency with a staff of 2,000 in the state of Washington. Although Dueker spent years on an executive committee for the Missouri State NAACP; how could she possibly have been working to improve the lives of Black St. Louis Countians while she simultaneously represented the interests of the untrustworthy County Police Department as their attorney & paid lobbyist? Not hardly - Dueker has publicly doxed Black activists in St. Louis, and has been known to encourage violence against anti-racism protesters through her social media accounts.
Let us also not forget Dueker’s falsely-filed complaint against St. Louis Alderwoman Cara Spencer alleging that Spencer violated state ethics codes by filing two board bills targeting the payday loan industry while serving as the executive director for the non profit Consumers Council of Missouri. These same predatory lenders, mind you, are the folks who paid Dueker large, undisclosed sums of money to represent them before the Missouri Supreme Court.
And Dueker’s close relationship with Fitch as well as Republican extremists in Jefferson City - did she leverage any of those close connections to protect childbearing persons in Missouri against the second-class citizenship they now face? The St. Louis
chapter of the National Political Women’s Caucus rescinded its endorsement of Dueker after overwhelming push back against the organization called attention to Dueker’s sordid history of thwarting progress, rather than promoting it and no other women-centered organization has publicly announced its support for Dueker since. Dueker is no Democrat - her employment history best demonstrates that - and she stands to bring nothing new to the County Council. What Dueker wants St. Louis County voters to endorse is the return to Stenger-era politics - a type of pay-to-play dynamic that is still sending its participants to federal prison with white collar crime convictions. Dueker unquestionably was part of Stenger’s inner circle and advised his administration on a number of deals. And yet somehow, Dueker was one of
only a few Stenger advisors to NOT face a federal investigation or grand jury. If the Post-Dispatch wants a political scandal, it need look no further than Dueker herself, one of the architects of Stenger’s schemes and a key player in some of the deals that landed Stenger himself in federal prison - forever barred from running for elected office again. So now, it’s one of Stenger’s closest friends’ turn to run for the seat that he forfeited on his way to Yankton Federal Prison in South Dakota. And once again, Jane Dueker seeks to rest on the laurels of lesser men. On August 2nd, St. Louis County voters will have the choice between the man who cleaned up after Stenger, or the woman who helped put Stenger into office in the first place, just one of her many other wrongdoings.
Shamed Dogan
Jane Dueker
“Taking Care of You”
Cutting edge
Barbershops, beauty salons allies in high blood pressure battle
Black barbershops and beauty salons were instrumental in helping raise the number of African Americans who were vaccinated last summer. The American Heart Association is enlisting their help in trimming high blood pressure through the Cutting the Pressure initiative.
By Alvin A. Reid
The St. Louis American
As the scourge of COVID-19 surged in early summer last year, President Biden enlisted the help of barber shops and beauty salons in a successful attempt to increase African American vaccine rates and spread knowledge about the pandemic.
Dr. Anthony Fauci, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases director, backed Biden’s play, calling the tactic “solid.”
“That’s the reason you see what [President Biden] is doing, and all of us are doing to get
Alzheimer’s Association partners with HRC to support LGBTQ individuals
By JoAnn Weaver
For The St. Louis American
The Alzheimer’s Association and Human Rights Campaign (HRC) announced a new partnership aimed at providing Alzheimer’s disease information and resources to LGBTQ communities in early June.
Working with over three million HRC members across the country, the partnership will seek to maximize support for LGBTQ individuals and their families impacted by Alzheimer’s and other dementia.
“What I think this partnership will do is help shed light on people living in our community living with Alzheimer’s because this is not an illness we talk about in our community,” Jordan Braxton, director of
n According to the American Heart Association, more than 315,000 people currently suffer from high blood pressure in the St. Louis area – and most do not know they have it.
people vaccinated. “We want to make it very easy for people to get the vaccine.” The strategy worked, and now it is being used in taking on other health inequities in
the St. Louis region and throughout the country. According to the American Heart Association, more than 315,000 people currently suffer from high blood pressure in the St. Louis area – and most do not know they have it. That is six St. Louis Cardinal baseball games standing room only crowds.
AHA St. Louis has launched its Cutting the Pressure initiative, which partners with area barbershops to train and encourage community-based barbers to have important
Pride in helping others
n “People told me it doesn’t matter what your sexual orientation or gender identity or gender expression was, Alzheimer’s affects all of us, so we have to support each other,” Braxton said.
Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion at Pride STL, said. “Dementia runs high in our LGBTQIA community and hopefully the Human Rights Campaign will be able to shine a light on that.”
Braxton had an older brother who suffered from Alzheimer’s, who passed away prior to the pandemic. She is on the human rights committee of Pride STL where she brings more diversity to the Human Rights Campaign. She participated in fundraisers with the Association in the past including creating an event called “Don’t Be Chicken to Fight Alzheimer’s” “In the queer community and being a vol-
unteer for the Alzheimer’s Association, I was hesitant because I didn’t know how I would be accepted. I don’t think people within our community realize how much this affects them,” Braxton said.
“Once I got involved, I saw how accepting, welcoming, and how much of a safe space the Alzheimer’s community was, and I opened up and talked about my experience. People told me it doesn’t matter what your sexual orientation or gender identity or gender expression was, Alzheimer’s affects all of us, so we have to support each other.”
Currently, there are more than 6 million Americans living with Alzheimer’s disease. More than 7% of LGBTQ individuals are living with dementia.
“I feel that working with the Human Rights Campaign that they care and open doors for resources for people with Alzheimer’s; sometimes we can’t go to facilities because of our sexual orientation or our gender identity or gender expression because some nursing homes and assisted living facilities will not take us,” Braxton said.
Four score
Healthy eating tips that can lower cancer risk
By Dr. Graham A. Colditz Siteman Cancer Center
It’s likely no surprise to read that what we choose to eat, and drink can have a large impact on our health, including our risk of cancer. From the time we can sit up at the kitchen table, we’re reminded of the importance of eating our vegetables. And although some of the messages and headlines we read these days about healthy eating can seem complicated or even contradictory, the science-backed basics of healthy eating remain simple.
Here are four tips that have been found to help lower the risk of cancer:
Focus on fruits, vegetables, and whole grains
Eating healthy, plantbased foods has a lot of overall health benefits and can also help prevent some cancers. Foods high in fiber and whole-grains – like whole-wheat bread and whole-grain cereals – have been found to lower the risk of colon cancer. Diets rich in fruits and vegetables have been found to lower the risk of a collection of cancers that include cancers of the mouth, lungs, stomach, and colon. And there’s growing evidence to suggest that eating higher amounts of vegetable protein in youth (from sources like soy, nuts, and vegetables) may improve breast health and lower the risk of adult breast cancer. Try to get at least five servings of fruits and vegetables each day and at least three servings of whole grains. Also, work to keep foods like white bread, sugary cereals, and white rice to a minimum.
Limit food from animals
There’s no need to go full vegetarian –unless you want to – but there’s compelling evidence that eating fewer animal-based foods can lower the risk of colon cancer, prostate cancer and possibly breast cancer. Try to eat fewer than three servings of red meat and processed meat each week and choose more plantbased sources of protein and fat, like nuts, beans, and vegetables.
When it comes to cancer, as well as overall health, the best choice is to not drink alcohol. While moderate drinking may have some heart-health benefits in older adults, even low levels of regular drinking can increase the risk
Jordan Braxton is a member of the Human Rights Committee of Pride STL and works to bring more diversity to the Human Rights Campaign.
Photo courtesy of NNPA
Photo courtesy of Alzheimer’s Association
Dr. Graham A. Colditz
“Taking Care of You”
Bush, other Dems demand Biden take action for abortion rights
By Emily Woodbury St. Louis Public Radio
President Joe Biden has confirmed that he would support making an exception to filibuster rules in the Senate to codify abortion rights and the right to privacy.
“We have to codify Roe v. Wade in the law,” Biden told reporters at a press conference in Madrid last week.
“The way to do that is to make sure that Congress votes to do that. And if the filibuster gets in the way, it’s like voting rights, it should be [that] we provide an exception for this.” Democratic lawmakers, including Missouri Congresswoman Cori Bush, D-St. Louis County, have called for Biden to support an exception to the filibuster rule for this purpose.
“I’ve been pushing for abolishing the filibuster the entire time I’ve been in Congress, and it was like hitting a brick wall,” Bush told St. Louis on the Air. “And to hear our president now come out and say the same thing … change is happening.”
Vice President Kamala Harris is also calling for Congress to act.
“For nearly 50 years, we’ve talked about what Roe v. Wade protects. Today, as of right now, as of this minute, we can only talk about what Roe v. Wade protected,” she said. “This is a health care crisis. Millions of women in America will go to bed tonight without access to the health care and reproductive care they had this morning, without access to the same health care or reproductive health care that their mothers and grandmothers had for 50 years.”
Bush said she wants to see an expansion of the U.S. Supreme Court. “It needs to reflect the needs of the major-
Barbershops
Continued from A10
Prevention and early intervention can save a life. Someone with hypertension at age 30 is nearly 20% more likely to develop heart disease or stroke.
“With this initiative, we are meeting people where they are,” said cardiologist, Gmerice Hammond, M.D., who is an AHA board member.
“We are committed to eliminating structural drivers of health inequities that place Black and brown communities
Alzheimer’s
Continued from A10
“Hopefully, the HRC will work to start opening those doors to provide that necessary care.”
LGBTQ individuals living with Alzheimer’s and other dementia face unique dis-
Colditz
Continued from A10
Finally ending filibuster an option
ity of the people in this country,” she said. She also supports a repeal of the Hyde Amendment (which bars the use of federal funds to pay for abortions) and the funding of resources to assist those who seek abortions in other states, to ensure “that they have vouchers for travel, childcare services … [and] other forms of support, like housing.”
at increasing risk of heart disease. And, with the percentage of U.S. adults who have their blood pressure under control significantly declining in recent years, we believe this initiative can help more people get their blood pressure under control and save more lives.
“We encourage anyone with high blood pressure to speak with their physician or health care professional to collaborate on and commit to a treatment plan that will help them prevent the life-altering consequences of high blood pressure—heart attack, stroke and death.”
Cutting the Pressure is a collaboration between the
ease-related challenges, including smaller support networks, lower rates of access to care and greater health disparities, many of which are risk factors for dementia, including depression, obesity, and cardiovascular disease.
“Ongoing conversations and discussions about health equity and health disparities
Bush has also called on Biden to declare a public health emergency. “If the president does this, he’ll use that executive authority to open up the resources that we’ve been talking about — the resources for abortion care services, [to] expand and protect access to abortion pills,” she said.
Bush was at Planned Parenthood of the St. Louis
American Heart Association, Cigna Foundation, Mercy St. Louis, St. Louis County Health, and the Gateway Region YMCA, dedicated to creating a culture of health in the greater St. Louis area by providing access to preventive resources to the community. For more information or to be involved in the program, please contact Rachelle. Bartnick@heart.org
A similar initiative is up and running in other regions, including Greensboro, N.C., where the program is titled Hair, Heart & Health.
Anthony Pettiford, owner of United Barber Shop, said, “people that come through this door just open up and talk
allow diversity and inclusion to strengthen our innovative capacity,” said Carl V. Hill, chief diversity, equity and inclusion officer, Alzheimer’s Association. “When we actively seek diverse perspectives, we unleash the full potential of our society, and that’s what we at the Alzheimer’s Association hope
Region and Southwest Missouri in St. Louis’ Central West End when she received the news that the Supreme Court had overturned Roe v. Wade. It’s the same location she visited in the mid-1990s to receive abortion care.
“I was 17 when I had to make that decision. It was the result of a rape,” she said. “I was able to do that just by picking up a phone and
about life.”
“People open up more in the barbershop. It could be about family stuff, sports, or politics. Sometimes it turns to health and loss,” said Anthony.
Through the program, salon and barbershop staff have been trained, blood pressure checks are being encouraged, and stylists and barbers are engaging their clients with heart health information to help reduce risk factors for heart disease and stroke.
“One of our clients had a very high blood pressure reading. When I showed him the blood pressure chart, he didn’t believe that it was real,” Anthony said.
to accomplish with HRC and other partners representing diverse communities.”
The Alzheimer’s Association joined the HRC and other LGBTQ community leaders in a virtual forum
“ALZPride: Voices of the LGBTQ Community on June 2 that addressed current barriers to ensure LGBTQ individuals
making an appointment — the same way I would pick up a phone and make an appointment for … any other service.
That’s how easy it should be to be able to access our reproductive health care services because abortion care is health care.
“Honestly, I don’t know where I’d be right now if I ended up having the child of my rapist,” she added.
“Lots of Black males don’t like to go to the doctor. I’m glad that clients feel comfortable enough to talk about health, but the biggest thing we see in the barbershops when it comes to health conversations is misinformation.
Learning more about the risk factors and warning signs for heart disease and stroke, has let me and my barbers be able to share right information when health conversations come up. We are not doctors, but we can direct people to where to learn more so they can get the info they need. It’s nice to be able to give more right information when it comes to health.
According to research pub-
have access to dementia care, support, and resources.
“HRC looks forward to working with the Alzheimer’s Association to increase access to care and support for LGBTQ+ individuals affected by Alzheimer’s and other dementia,” said Dan Stewart, associate director, Human Rights Campaign.
As Bush pushes for federal action to protect the right to abortion, she also wants her constituents to keep in mind that the procedure is available in other states.
“Abortion care is still available, and abortion care is also indispensable,” she said. “It is essential, and it is necessary to make sure that we are saving lives.”
lished in the Journal of the American Medical Association [JAMA], barbershop-based health interventions are effective in lowering high blood pressure in Black men. The prevalence of high blood pressure among Black adults in the United States is among the highest in the world. More than 40% of non-Hispanic Black men and women have high blood pressure, with Black Americans often developing high blood pressure earlier in life.
“Some people may be receptive to accurate health information, and some may not. You maybe can’t change everyone, but you might help save somebody,” he said.
Mind
Dr. Graham A. Colditz, associate director of prevention and control at Siteman Cancer Center at Barnes-Jewish Hospital and Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis, is an internationally recognized leader in cancer prevention and the creator of the free prevention tool YourDiseaseRisk.com conversations with customers about blood pressure.
• Be a more mindful eater. Start with smaller portions, eat slowly, and try to eat only when hungry.
“As a gerontologist and a trans individual, I have seen the unique challenges LGBTQ+ individuals face in accessing dementia care and services. This partnership can make great strides in advocating and addressing the needs of our community, which is too often overlooked.”
Making changes to how we eat isn’t always easy, but it’s something we can all do. Start with something small, like cutting out one sugary soda a week or testing out a new vegetarian recipe, and then slowly build from there. Little changes can lead to big health benefits. It’s your health. Take control.
Photo by Brian Munoz
U.S. Rep. Cori Bush, D-St. Louis County, right, reacts as Chief of Staff Abbas Alawieh shows her a Supreme Court decision overturning Roe v Wade on June 24 at Planned Parenthood of the St. Louis Region and Southwest Missouri in the Central West End in St. Louis.
President Biden, VP Harris both speak with Cherelle Griner
NNPA Newswire
One day after the wife of WNBA star Brittney Griner expressed frustration that the family hadn’t heard from the White House, President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris spoke with
Cherelle Griner. The White House said Biden called Cherelle on Wednesday to “reassure her that he is working to secure Brittney’s release as soon as possible, as well as the release of Paul Whelan and other U.S. nationals who are wrongfully detained or held
hostage in Russia and around the world.”
In a July 4 letter, Brittney Griner pleaded with Biden to help free her and others held in Russia.
“As I sit here in a Russian prison, alone with my thoughts and without the protection
of my wife, family, friends, Olympic jersey, or any accomplishments, I’m terrified I might be here forever,” Griner wrote.
“I miss my wife! I miss my family! I miss my teammates! It kills me to know they are suffering so much right now. So I am grateful for whatever you can do at this moment to get me home.” Griner has been held in Russia since her February arrest at Moscow’s Sheremetyevo airport after authorities allegedly found cannabis oil in her luggage. If convicted, Griner faces up to ten years in prison. Reportedly, fewer than 1% of defendants in criminal cases win acquittal in Russia. Moreover, even if Griner wins acquittal, the Russian government has the right to overturn any decision and remand her to prison. She pleaded with Biden, “Please do all you can to bring us home. “I voted for the first time in 2020, and I voted for you. I believe in you.” Afterward, Cherelle expressed frustration in a nationally televised interview with the Biden administration, saying she hadn’t heard from the President.
“It kills me every time that you know when I have to write her, and she’s asking, ‘Have you met with them yet?’ And I have to say no… I’m sure she is like, ‘I’m going to write him and ask now because my family has tried to no avail, so I’m going to do it myself,’” Cherelle told CBS Mornings earlier in the week.
The White House said Biden shared a draft of a letter he planned to send to Brittney.
“The President offered his support to Cherelle and Brittney’s family, and he committed to ensuring they are provided with all possible assistance while his administration pursues every avenue to bring Brittney home,” The White House stated.
WNBA star Brittney Griner with wife Cherelle Griner
The Root cause
Rustic Roots marks a return of farm to urban area
By Ashley Winters
The St. Louis American Newspaper
Before Janett Lewis started Rustic Roots Sanctuary she had her own community garden in her front yard. Neighbors near and far would stop by to help with planting, picking weeds, and the overall upkeep of the small garden.
“It went from a community garden to a fully functioning farm,” said Janett Lewis, owner, and operator of the seven-acre Rustic Roosts Sanctuary.
Upon entering the farm you get a whiff of her herbs, mint, lemon balm, basil, and dill. The welcoming atmosphere sweeps you into this country-like setting, away from the hustle and bustle of St. Louis, and gently places you in an oasis that feels 100 miles away from the Arch.
Lewis made her way to St. Louis by way of Atlanta and San Diego with a vision to start a women’s wellness retreat. She wanted to create a holistic healing space that incorporated gardening and farming for women battling traumatic experiences.
Lewis candidly expresses her experiences with trauma, she wants to help women tune in, and cancel out the noise through yoga and meditation, then they could tap into their source of
power. But how was Lewis going to fund this dream?
She got into real estate in San Diego, and for 14 years she did very well for herself, she started house hunting for homes closer to the southern regions to get her dream going. She looked at housing markets in Tennessee and Georgia and stumbled across St. Louis. She discovered how affordable the homes in Spanish Lake are compared to other houses on the market.
In 2015 Lewis bought a few homes in Spanish Lake and over a few years she had six rental properties in Spanish Lake.
After two years of being a landlord, Lewis had acquired enough funds to put into her
PeoPle on the Move
Gabrielle Young named executive director
long-awaited sanctuary and decided to sell all but one of her properties.
“The first two years everything I had, my time, energy, heart, and money, all of it went into creating this space I had envisioned so long ago,” said Lewis.
Rustic Roots Sanctuary became a 501c 3 at the beginning of 2020, and for almost three years Lewis spends up to 12 hours on her farm cultivating the land. She grows corn, beans, okra, carrots, tomatoes, cantaloupe, and watermelon and that’s not the whole list. This talented woman of the land loves being in nature, surrounding herself with things created from the earth. However, if it weren’t for the volunteers, she says she doesn’t know how would have gotten this far.
“To get to this point, when we didn’t have anyone helping us except for the volunteers, it was a lot of work. There were times I was like, what was I thinking, what did I get myself into,” said Lewis.
When Lewis went to the community to ask for their help with the community garden they were on board. She says that everyone worked together, they got the garden beds up and before she
See
ROOTS, B2
Regan says EPA ‘not out of the game’ after Supreme Court decision
By Alvin A. Reid
American
n “When I’m in that dirt, I’m connected to my father and grandfather and all the ones that came before them, it’s empowering for me,” said Lewis. “I would like to see my people grow their own food, taking back their power.” Michael Regan is the
new director of communications and PR
Jordyn Elston was named director of communications and public relations for the Hazelwood School District. She brings more than seven years of communication and public relations experience to the position, including roles as senior public relations specialist for the State of Alabama Emergency Management Agency and news anchor and multimedia journalist for WSFA 12 News. She earned a bachelor’s degree in broadcast journalism from Troy University and a master’s degree in strategic communication, also from Troy University. Elston was awarded the Troy University Hall School of Journalism and Communication 2022 Young Alumna of the Year Award.
Cooper named dean of nursing program
St. Louis Community College and its Board of Trustees named Jordan Cooper as dean of nursing. Cooper, who served as the interim dean of nursing for the spring 2022 semester, will continue the college’s expansion started in 2019 that will see the College grow its nursing program by 75% by 2024. Cooper is a registered nurse, board-certified family nurse practitioner and native of St. Louis County. He attended Riverview Gardens High School and graduated from STLCC-Florissant Valley with an associate of applied science in nursing.
Kelly King is new VP of HR Maryville University announced the appointment of Gabrielle Young as its executive director for strategic marketing and communications. Young will engineer and direct Maryville’s marketing and communication strategy, including brand and reputation management, media relations, digital marketing and crisis communications, and partner closely with external agencies and internal departments to support the strategic growth of the University.
Kelly King has joined Big Brothers Big Sisters of Eastern Missouri as vice president of Human Resources. In this role, King is responsible for ensuring the daily functions of the Human Resources (HR) department are managed effectively and professionally. Her areas of responsibility include talent acquisition, talent development, employee relations, people-related policy development, interpretation and application, creation of culture enhancing initiatives, and development of strategies that will increase engagement.
MJ Williams and Olivia Davis pick raspberries Wednesday morning June 22, 2022 at the Rustic Roots Sanctuary in Spanish Lake.
RUSTIC
Photo by Wiley Price / St. Louis American
Elston
Gabrielle Young
Jordyn Elston
Regan
Continued from B1
“Over the past 18 months or so, [the EPA] has done a really good job of focusing on the full suite of climate pollutants,” he said.
“Power plants play a significant role in this larger picture and that’s why the Supreme Court’s ruling is disappointing, because it’s slowing down the momentum of not only curtailing climate change impacts, but the globally competitive aspects that this country can seize to create jobs and grow economic opportunities.”
President Biden had set a goal for an emissions-free power sector by 2035 and yesterday said the ruling was “another devastating decision that aims to take our country backwards.”
“While this decision risks damaging our nation’s ability to keep our air clean and combat climate change, I will not relent in using my lawful authorities to protect public health and tackle the climate crisis,” he said in a statement.
Regan said the EPA was taking time to review the ruling and he called on Americans to speak out.
“When we see the setbacks, we will take these punches, absorb them, but then come back with a counterpunch,” he said.
“We’re going to move forward with every legal authority to regulate climate pollution and protect communities that we have.
“Rulings like [this] prevent us from moving forward as quickly as we would like. So, Americans should use their voices as much as possible to ensure that we can move forward and do the things that the American people would like for us to do.”
The Biden administration came into office with the most ambitious climate agenda of any president, including the pledge to cut U.S. greenhouse gas emissions in half by the end of this decade, based on 2005 levels.
“The Court’s ruling, obviously, puts a speed bump in the path of the important work that this agency and other agencies would like to pursue. We will continue to keep our eye on the
Rustic Roots
Continued from B1
knew it they had started feeding themselves.
“It just became a neighborhood thing, we were like ‘we’re going to feed ourselves, so let’s do this,” said Lewis.
The community garden grew into this sanctuary, seven acres of food and animals. Orchards of peach trees, almond trees, pecan trees, and elderberry trees. Move a few feet to the left or right, and then you have sweet potatoes, asparagus, and blackberry bushes.
And just a catty-corner from all that goodness is the bee farm because Lewis is also a beekeeper who produces her honey in partnership with Solidarity Economy St. Louis & Rebirth Farmer extraordinaire!
And if your mouth isn’t watering yet, Lewis grows collard greens, beets, and lettuce.
All of these delicious foods are available at her farmer’s market every Wednesday starting June 29 until mid-October from 4:00 pm until sunset.
Court now and in the future,” Regan said.
Addressing environmental racism
In a recent interview on the NNPA broadcast, “Let it Be Known,” Regan said the bipartisan infrastructure bill provides an opportunity to finally rid America of poisonous lead pipes and free communities of color of the toxins that have polluted their neighborhoods for centuries.
The bipartisan infrastructure law invests $3.5 billion in cleaning up superfund sites and addressing the nation’s legacy of pollution, he stated.
Regan said the law delivers more than $50 billion to EPA to improve America’s drinking water, wastewater, and stormwater infrastructure.
Further, it provides $15 billion to the Drinking Water State Revolving Fund (SRF) for Lead Service Line Replacement, $4 billion to the Drinking Water SRF for Emerging Contaminants, and $5 billion to Water Infrastructure Improvements for the Nation Grants to address emerging contaminants.
“There are still 6 to 10 million lead services lines in cities and towns across the country, many in communities of color and low-income neighborhoods,” Regan said.
Because of the investments in the infrastructure law, millions of American families will no longer have to fear the harmful health effects caused by lead and other pollutants in their water, Regan asserted.
Regan said in each location he visits, he’s sure to invite the national media to accurately report what’s going on in communities across the nation.
“The bipartisan infrastructure provides resources for our communities. There are matching grants and forgivable loans, which means more of our communities have an opportunity to compete for these grants,” he stated.
“We are also making $50 million available for technical assistance to help our communities to become more competitive. I’ve written a letter to every governor in the country outlining the criteria by which we believe those resources should be spent.”
Regan said he developed a passion for public service as a
Visitors can stop by every Wednesday at Rustic Roots Sanctuary and buy affordable healthy food right from the farm. Booths are set up in a loop, items sell between $1 to $3 a pound, local bands will serenade you as you shop, and vendors from around the area can set up and sell their unique products.
Lewis says her farmer’s market is a necessity, especially in the Spanish Lake community because it only has one grocery store, after three nearby Shop N Save stores closed in 2019.
She says having only one close grocery store to shop at created a sort of monopoly in her community, she noticed the prices were going up and the quality of food was going down.
“I don’t know how people can afford to shop at grocery stores anymore,” said Lewis.
She thought about the senior and disabled communities in Spanish Lake and her heart aches for them because she wondered how they would get food.
Lewis decided to start the Senior Program at the sanctuary, she delivers bags of free produce to the senior and
young person. His father graduated from North Carolina A&T and served in Vietnam, working as an agricultural extension agent and with the national guard.
For 40 years, Regan’s mother worked as a nurse.
“I grew up with the desire to contribute to society because of what I saw in my home,” he exclaimed.
Regan studied environmental science and earth science.
Notably, he said Biden’s proposed 2023 budget request for EPA provides $11.9 billion to advance key priorities, including tackling the climate crisis, delivering environmental justice, protecting air quality, upgrading the nation’s aging water infrastructure, and rebuilding core functions at the Agency.
Regan said EPA continues to prioritize addressing climate change with the focus and resources the crisis demands.
“At EPA, we know both climate mitigation and adaptation are essential components of the strategy to reduce the threats and impact of climate change,” Regan said.
“We will invest in programs to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, including an additional $100 million for air quality grants to states and tribes to reduce greenhouse gas emissions on a local and regional scale.”
Regan further acknowledged that the communities hardest hit by pollution and climate change are most often communities of color, Indigenous communities, rural communities, and poor communities.
“For generations, many of these vulnerable communities have been overburdened with higher instances of polluted air, water, and land,” Regan said.
“This inequity of environmental protection is not just an environmental justice issue but also a civil rights concern. Neither an individual’s skin color nor the wealth of their zip code should determine whether they have clean air to breathe, safe water to drink, or healthy environments in which their children can play.
“I am not afraid to enforce the laws on the books to make sure our children are breathing clean air.”
The NNPA Newswire contributed to this report
disabled community members every Thursday.
Lewis says since she moved to St. Louis people have been lined up to help her, and local and non-local organizations have helped with funding her dream sanctuary.
“This is exactly what I’m supposed to be doing, it’s been easier since things started to fall into place,” said Lewis.
Lewis received a grant from the Art & Education Healing Counselor for her culinary arts program on the farm, where she leads a class in making herbal medicine.
“Those kinds of blessings made me realize how important this is to our whole community,” said Lewis.
And the blessings just keep pouring in for Lewis, she also received a grant for a 40ft diameter yurt, which is a sustainable building structure where she plans to hold yoga and meditation classes on the farm.
Farming is a part of Lewis’ heritage, her father and grandfather worked on the family farm in Georgia on a 150-acre plantation.
Lewis believes a lot of Black and brown communities don’t realize that growing your food is power, you can heal your body with what you grow in your backyard. She says we can save so much money by eating from the land we live on. And says that the people who know have the responsibility to teach those around them. It is something spiritual for her to have her hands in that dirt, growing food from the soil.
“When I’m in that dirt, I’m connected to my father and grandfather and all the ones that came before them, it’s empowering for me,” said Lewis. “I would like to see my people grow their own food, taking back their power.”
For more information on Rustic Roots Sanctuary visit the website at https://rusticrootssanctuary.org/
n “The city has accepted me since [I was] a rookie, and here I am going into year 11 and it’s the same love, if not more.”
– Washington Wizards guard
Bradley Beal, who just signed a $251 million, five year deal
Sports
InSIdE SportS
By Earl Austin Jr.
Getting a grip
Guyton guides heralded Warriors wrestling program
The Rec-o-Plex Facility on Chambers Road in North County can be a hot and steamy place to be during the summer months.
The building is also a magical place for scores of dedicated young athletes as it serves as the home base of the St. Louis Warriors, a youth wrestling program that has been going strong in North County for more than a decade.
Jeremy Guyton, a former multi-sport standout athlete at Hazelwood East, is the founder and head coach of the Warriors program. He saw a need for a program for up-and-coming wrestling talent in his home area and he has filled the void brilliantly since 2011.
“There were only two other programs in North County, and they only went for a few months at a time,” Guyton said. “We had a few kids who wanted to train nine to 12 months out of the year, so I started the St. Louis Warriors.”
Guyton’s main wrestlers range in age from four to 14 years old, but high school-aged kids who have gone through the program always come back for those valuable training sessions. Some of the best up and coming young wrestling talent in St. Louis can be found in the building daily.
Guyton provides structure and discipline in addition to helping kids develop their talent. He is a demanding coach and a great motivator, but the kids love him, and they soak up everything that he must teach. They travel across the country to places such as Wisconsin, North Dakota, Texas, New York, and Oklahoma are routinely bring back medals and trophies from their national competitions.
“Our kids don’t always come from the most positive environments, so this keep this kind of structure is super important,” Guyton said. “We give them tough love. We are hard on them, and we hold them to high expectations. Young people need that kind of push.
It’s been rewarding because it has given opportunities to kids who look like me and come from the same area as me. I feel privileged to be in a position to provide those opportunities to the future me or somebody who can be way better than me.
Guyton gets major assistance from older brother Jason Guyton, who himself was a former star wrestler at Hazelwood East and Howard University. Jason and his brother Jacobi Guyton were mainstays for a dominant Spartans dynasty that won three consecutive state championships in the mid-1990s. He will soon be inducted in the Howard University Athletic Hall of Fame. Jason is also a tremendous ambassador for the program, the young wrestlers and especially his younger brother.
“Jeremy’s talent is the ability to reach the
young people in the community. This is the only youth program in St. Louis right now, especially in the North County, North city area,” Jason Guyton said. “In a state that is laden with talent, this is the premiere program, and we have to keep it going.”
“We have a bevy of youth state champions and national champions here. The goal here is to make the people of North County and North city know that that type of talent and that type of top training exists right here in the area. “ The results have been tremendous as the Warriors have been stellar performers on and off the wrestling mat through the years. Of the 267 kids that have gone through the program, 67 of them have earned NCAA Division I scholarships and 119 student-athletes have
SportS EyE
With Alvin A. Reid
also graduated from college with degrees. There are 27 athletes who are currently in college at the NCAA and NAIA levels. They include twins Jayden and Jaylen Carson, former standouts at Lafayette High, who are now wrestling at ArkansasPine Bluff. Both are NCAA Academic AllAmericans with 4.0 grade-point averages. Another successful alum is Joshua Sanders, a former state championship wrestler at CBC who is now attending Cornell in the Ivy League. Sanders started with the Warriors program at five years old.
One of the current Warriors already making an impact is Miguel Sanders, who is Joshua’s younger brother and a high-level national performer at nine years old. A few other younger wrestlers in the program include Domo Turner, Landon Edwards and Chasen Burke.
Larry Doby is second to none in Major League Baseball history
Eighty-one days after Jackie Robinson made his debut with the Brooklyn Dodgers on April 15, 1947, Larry Doby played his first game with the Cleveland Indians. Both the National and American League were now integrated, and Doby’s accomplishments on and off the field are every bit as deserving of recognition as Robinson’s.
According to MLB historian and author Anthony Castrovince, Doby had headed home after his Negro League team, the Newark [New Jersey] Eagles, had completed a series against the Philadelphia Stars in Wilmington, Delaware. He got home at 5:30 a.m., and 90 minutes later, Doby’s phone rang. It was Eagles owner Effa Manley.
heading to Chicago where the Indians were facing the White Sox. He arrived on Sunday, July 5
A footnote in history is a man named Louis Jones. Cleveland owner Bill Veeck had hired Jones to scout Doby in the Negro Leagues and determine if he was ready for the pressure, racism, and grind of becoming the American League’s first Black player.
Alvin A. Reid
“Larry, you have been bought by the Cleveland Indians of the American League and you are to join the team in Chicago on Sunday,” she said. This was on July 3, 1947. Doby played the first game of a doubleheader on July 4 before boarding a train and
Jones endorsed Doby wholeheartedly and met him at a Chicago train station the morning of July 5. A taxi took them to the Congress Hotel where he met Cleveland owner Bill Veeck for the first time. [Doby was not allowed to stay there once he joined the Indians. He had to lodge at the DuSable Hotel, which welcomed Black patrons.] Veeck was unlike most of his fellow owners. He felt there was a place for Black players in Major League Baseball, and he shared his thoughts with owners and reporters. Later that day, Doby took the field for the Indians.
In 29 games with the Indians in 1947, Doby looked
like anything but a future hall of Fame member. He hit just .156 with no home runs and two runs batted in. Veeck was obviously convinced he could play, and there was no talk of returning him to Newark.
In 1948, Doby posted a .301 average, 14 homers, 66 Runs Batted In, 23 doubles and nine triples Cleveland won its first AL pennant in 28 years and faced the Boston Braves in the World Series. Doby was 7-for-22 in the
series and belted the game-winning home run in Game 4. The Indians’ sweep of the Braves remains the franchise’s last World Series title.
In 1952, his 32 home runs, 104 runs scored, and .541 slugging percentage all led he American League.
Two seasons later, Doby should have won the AL Most Valuable Player Award. He hit 32 home runs and drove in 136 rums, which both led the AL. He also batted .291, was a stellar centerfielder and the Indians won 111 games.
Doby would finish second to New York Yankees catcher Yogi Berra in MVP voting, in part because three of his teammates also garnered MVP votes. The split vote benefitted Berra – as did his skin color most likely.
Berra, a St. Louis native, and Doby had become friends in 1947 and remained close throughout their lives.
Doby would go on to play in nine All-Star Games and closed his 17-year career with a .288 batting average, 273 home runs, and 1,099 RBIs.
He did not leave baseball after his playing career ended. He became a scout, minor league instructor, and batting
coach for the for the expansion Montreal Expos. He managed winter league baseball in Venezuela for five seasons and returned to the Indians in 1974 as first base coach. He became baseball’s second Black manager when he was hired by the White Sox in 1977. Frank Robinson was the game’s first Black manager after taking over the Indians in 1975.
Doby was inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame in July 1998 by the Veteran’s Committee.
His acceptance speech drew several standing ovations, including when he said, “You know, it’s a very tough thing to look back about things that were probably negative.”
“You put those things on the back burner. You are proud and happy that you’ve been a part of integrating baseball to show people that we can live together, we can work together, and we can be successful together.”
Larry Doby was MLB’s second Black player and second Black manager. When it comes to baseball history, he is second to none.
Earl Austin Jr.
Jeremy Guyton, right, a former multi-sport standout athlete at Hazelwood East, is the founder and head coach of the Warriors wrestling program.
Larry Doby was the second Black player in Major League baseball.
Photo courtesy of Jeremy Guyton
Photo courtesy of Cleveland Guardians
Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. kicked off the 2022 Regional Conference season with the Central Regional Conference. The conference took place recently in Des Moines, Iowa.
The Honorable Gloria Reno, circuit judge, 21st Judicial Court, St. Louis County, and longtime member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., is this year’s Frankie Muse Freeman Award recipient. For Judge Reno, the relationship she had with Attorney Freeman made for a special moment. During her acceptance speech, Judge Reno recalled the days of
Two St. Louisans win top awards during Delta regional conference
traveling with Frankie Freeman as they handled Delta business as part of the National Social Action Commission. In recognition and honor of the 14th National President of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated. The Frankie Muse Freeman Award is presented to a collegiate and alumnae member of the sorority within the Central Region who have demonstrated outstanding work through endeavors locally, regionally, statewide, or nationally in the areas of education, S.T.E.A.M. (science, technology, engineering, arts,
math), civil rights, fair housing, pay equity, health care for the underrepresented, or employment issues that address advancement for women and minorities. Attorney Freeman was a member of St. Louis Alumnae Chapter.
SLA member Shelia Jones is the 2022 Delta D.E.A.R. Award recipient for the Central Region. This award is presented to a Delta D.E.A.R. who has been an outstanding member of a chapter or a member-at-large, is caring, nurturing, and has served as a role model throughout her Delta career.
City Academy welcomes Jarrett Young as new head of school
City Academy announced that its new head of school, Jarrett Young, officially began his tenure at the school July 1.
“We’re so excited for Jarrett’s energy, positivity, and his commitment to culture,” says School President and Co-Founder Don Danforth III.
“One of the things that we’ve
According to the American School Bus Council, more than 26 million children ride 480,000 buses daily. Unfortunately, there are not enough bus drivers to transport students and that’s a challenge because the first step to students getting a good education is getting them to school. Thus, bus drivers are critical.
In the St. Louis Metro region, the Missouri Central
always looked at our leaders to do is to help us look really critically at our school and figure out what we do well and how we can be better.”
Jarrett, whose hiring was first announced last fall, comes to City Academy from Whitfield School where he served as the director of the
Middle School since 2017. He has also held several roles in independent schools including the Blake School in Minneapolis where he was a grade dean. Prior to working in independent schools, Young worked as
Jarrett Young
assistant dean of student affairs at Bowdoin College.
“The opportunity to be a leader at City Academy is an honor of a lifetime, because my story parallels our students’ stories,” says Jarrett. “I grew up not
far from our campus and was supported by family – my mother and grandmother – who wanted me to experience the transformative power of education. That experience drives me every day of my life to do the same for others with every ounce of my being.” He attended MICDS as the beneficiary of a program that offered opportunities for students who might not otherwise be able to attend private schools. He received his undergraduate degree from Bowdoin College in Maine and his master’s in education from Harvard.
Missouri Central School Bus to host job fair July 13
School Bus (MCSB) is gearing up to take on this challenge.
Chicago-based MCSB, known nationally as North America Central School Bus Services, recently signed a five-year agreement to serve as the transportation provider for the Saint Louis Public School (SLPS) District, the region’s largest transporter of students with an estimated 17,000 children riding 265 buses. “We
are delighted to have MCSB on our team,” said Toyin Akinola, SLPS’s Director of Transportation, “We also know our current challenges will likely follow us into the next school year,” Akinola said. “Presently, we are renewing our agreements with cab companies and additional transportation services to help support MCSB’s efforts. Our hope is that with the new energy of
MCSB and their parent- centered approach, the work will become more manageable.”
MCSB is hiring right now for several positions within the company as they prepare for a busy year. “Our goal is to provide a safe and reliable service for District students and their families,” said Scott Allen, MSCB’s Regional Operations Manager. “We are currently recruiting bus drivers and pay-
ing $25 an hour guaranteed regardless of experience. We also offer a flexible schedule, weekly pay and summers off. Our perks also include a childride-along program for bus drivers with daycare age children,” Allen said. “Kids can ride the bus with their parents during their shift to ease the burden of childcare. People with no experience can apply because all training is paid for, and we get you ready to drive a school bus.” MCSB is hosting a hiring fair for bus driver positions Wednesday, July 13, 2022 from 10 am to 7 pm, at Marketplace Center, 6546 Manchester Avenue in the City of St. Louis. Attendees will enjoy free food, games for kids, and even get behind the wheel of a bus! For more information, call (314) 762-0318.
The Honorable Gloria Reno, circuit judge, 21st Judicial Court, St. Louis County, and longtime member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., is this year’s Frankie Muse Freeman Award recipient. SLA member Shelia Jones is the 2022 Delta D.E.A.R. Award recipient for the Central Region.
Living It
American Black Film Festival offered dazzling array of talent
Movies cover myriad of topics
By Dwight Brown NNPA Film Critic
The 2022 American Black Film Festival in Miami was back to an in-person event, featuring in-theater screenings and a virtual component too. Issa Rae (Insecure) reigned as the festival ambassador and introduced her new HBO Max series “Rap Sh!t.” The series follows two estranged high school friends who reunite in Miami and form a rap group together. Crowds watched feature films, docs and shorts and participated in talk events, networking and, of course, partied hard. These distinguished films were part of the programming.
Civil
Often, when there’s a crisis regarding police malfeasance and concerning an African American victim, attorney Benjamin Crump is nearby. Not as a prosecuting or defense attorney, but as the counsel to aggrieved families who seek justice through lawsuits—the kind that hit negligent police forces and municipalities where it hurts. In the wallet. Crump has established himself as a player, much like the late Johnny Cochrane. His client list is impressive beyond words: Trayvon Martin, Michael Brown, George Floyd, Ahmaud Arbery, Breonna Taylor… He’s a hero to many but does have his detractors. Some are rankled that his work is not pro-bono, at least not on the well-known cases. His law firm “Ben Crump Trial Lawyer for Justice” has amassed millions for their clients—and themselves. They receive 500 calls a day seeking advice and service.
Director Nadia Hallgren takes a balanced approach to establishing all Crump’s personae: media- savvy attorney, savior, counselor, extended family member, spokesperson, activist. Even as a young man he was on a mission: “Lead me. Or follow me. Or get the hell outta my way.” And these days he knows his value: “‘People seek me out because they want somebody they can trust.” As the footage rolls newsclips and videos of Crump, his ego is front and center along with his noteworthy achievements. He has time-tested strategies (make the press an ally), big enemies (Fox News hates him) and repped less visible cases (Black farmers dealing with pesticide illnesses).
Hallgren’s doc style is pretty routine. From a tech standpoint, nothing is extraordinary: editing, cinematography, music… In fact, considering Crump’s accomplishments as a lawyer and civil rights advocate, his deeds seem far more impressive than this non-fiction film. After all, he’s the trial lawyer who answered one of the most significant calls in American history: “My cousin was
Crowned in excellence
Former Fox 2 reporter trades in her microphone for a potential coveted spot in Miss USA pageant
By Danielle Brown The St. Louis American
A familiar face from local television in St. Louis, Mikala McGhee, former Fox 2 news, and sports reporter, recently won the Miss Missouri USA pageant in May. Although she’s temporarily traded in her microphone, she’s more than ready for the new journey she has embarked on.
“This is something new and very exciting that I did not see or predict would happen in my lifetime, but now that I’m on this ride I’ve been enjoying every second of it,” McGhee said. Her reason for entering the competition comes from her viewing herself as a multifaceted individual. She became genuinely intrigued by the pageantry arena after meeting 2019 Miss Missouri USA winner Joye Forrest. Her interest motivated her to research the organization and then realize it would be a great opportunity for her career and her growth as a person.
“A lot of the things that they [Miss Missouri USA] were pushing and promoting were ideals, values, and business models I saw for myself,” McGhee said. “Once I felt that and got confirmation from God after a lot of prayers and some nights thinking about it, I just went ahead and pulled the trigger. Here we are today.”
unknowledgeable about pageants may
just murdered by a Minneapolis police officer. His name is George Floyd.” A suitably factual doc that needed to be insightful and instructive too.
Our Father, The Devil
This isn’t a pleasant story. It’s a revenge saga that traps you and makes you feel queasy. With venom writer/director Ellie Foumbi tells a tale about a victim and perpetrator of violent war crimes.
Her muse is an African refugee named Marie Cissé (Babetida Sadjo). She’s the head chef at a
assume they can quit their day job and everything will just fall into place. While McGhee has paused her journalism career for a limited time, she said she has still been keeping busy in other areas such as freelance reporting, working at her family funeral home, Archway Memorial Chapel, and manning her and her father’s fireworks stand. Not to mention she also is Miss Missouri USA and is responsible for including serving as the state’s spokesperson, managing all social media platforms for the state within the USA system, along with hosting, emceeing, and giving back to the community.
“I’ve been very busy on the go,” McGhee said. “It’s been a lot of early mornings and late nights. At this time of my life, I have to make
retirement home in Luchon, a small-town in southwest France. On the outside she’s cheery with her co-worker Nadia, and a café waiter named Arnaud (Franck Saurel) who flirts with her. Her demeanor changes drastically the day a charismatic Catholic Priest, Father Patrick (Souléymane Sy Savané), comes to the home. Others are impressed by him. Marie is repulsed. This man was a murderous warlord. Foumbi’s script masterfully encompasses human rights violations, social issues, and feminist leanings. Her unusual storyline mimics elements of Stephen King’s Misery. It’s enough to keep the narrative fairly engaging, but possibly not in ways film fans would favor. Credit Sadjo
and Savané for making more out of the 1h47m thriller than is on the page. The lead actor in particular skillfully wears her emotions on her face, is quite earnest and surprisingly diabolical: “You took everything that was good from me and shredded it. You’re not leaving here alive!” As a director, Foumbi has assembled an outstanding tech crew. The film’s look (cinematographer Tinx Chan; production designer Phillippe Lacomblez) is art house. Its sounds (composer Gavin Brivik) are alluring. And the pacing (editor Roy Clovis) rhythmic. Though the increas-
Sam Gilliam, innovator in postwar American abstraction, passes at age 88
By Shaka Myrick Saint Louis Art Museum
American artist Sam Gilliam passed away Saturday, June 25, 2022. He expressed visibility and agency in alternative ways, challenging the role of Black history as a requirement in Black art. As an artist he devoted his life to creating paintings that refrained from recognizable images and overt political messages preferred by many of his colleagues.
Born in Tupelo Mississippi in 1933, Gilliam moved to Washington, D.C. after earning a B.A. in Creative Art (1955) and a Master of Fine Arts (1961) from the University of Louisville.
Gilliam established himself at the forefront of American abstraction while working as one of the leading instructors of D.C’s Washington Color School, a distinguished group of color field painters. He was often inspired by jazz music, such as the scores of John Coltrane and constructed lyrical abstractions that took on a variety of forms, moods, and materials.
As an African American artist in the nation’s capital at the height of the Civil Rights Movement, Sam Gilliam’s work reached beyond aesthetics, redefining art’s role during a pivotal period of social and societal change. His experiments with paint application were seen as a radical transformation in early contemporary art, profoundly expanding possibilities for the future of abstract painting.
In the 1960s, when African American artists were expected to create figurative work explicitly addressing racial subject matter, Gilliam focused on the development of a new formal language that celebrated the cultivation and expression of the individual voice.
Gilliam’s earliest solo exhibitions at the
Jefferson Place Gallery in Washington, D.C between 1965 and 1973, were a precursor for a number of exhibitions at museums and galleries across the nation, including the Howard University Gallery of Art, Philadelphia Museum of Art, Philadelphia Museum of Art, Hamilton Gallery of Contemporary Art, Contemporary Arts Museum Houston, Zora Neale Hurston Museum of
Photo Courtesy of Mikala McGhee
Former Fox 2 news and reporter Mikala McGhee was crowned Miss Missouri USA in May and is now competing for the national title of Miss USA.
Sam Gilliam
Above left: Babetida Sadjo and Souléymane Sy Savané in Our Father, The Devil
Above right: Rickey Jackson is the subject of the documentary Lovely Jackson
Left: Ben Crump is the subject of the documentary Civil
APGA members pictured (clockwise from top right): St. Louis native Christian Heavens, Willie Mack and Marcus Byrd.
Veteran homelessness exhibit created by local teens opens at Soldiers Memorial
Art Museum’s newest painting highlights Black presence in early 1800 Europe
By Delyn Stephenson, Romare Bearden Graduate Museum Fellow, 2021-2022
By Ellen Kunkelmann, Missouri Historical Society
On Saturday, July 16, a new special exhibit will open at Soldiers Memorial Military Museum in downtown St. Louis. The Battle at Home: Veteran Homelessness was created by the Missouri Historical Society’s Teens Make History (TMH), a work-based learning program for local high school students. Through long-term paid apprenticeships the program aims to build key professional skills and give students the confidence they need to succeed. This exhibit will complement the upcoming Soldiers Memorial exhibit Vietnam: At War and At Home, opening November 11.
Homelessness has disproportionately affected veterans for decades. While they make up only 7 percent of the US general population, veterans account for 13 percent of the adult unhoused population. Today, approximately 40,000 US veterans are experiencing homelessness.
Veteran homelessness is a complex issue, and signs of homelessness can often go unnoticed by the general public. By exploring the factors that lead to veteran homelessness, this exhibit will challenge common misconceptions and highlight steps that can be taken to tackle this important issue.
The TMH Apprentices developed the exhibit in its entirety—from inception to design—through conducting primary- and secondary-source research, selecting images, writing labels, designing exhibit layouts, and planning related public programs. They consulted with various professionals at the Missouri Historical Society
to turn ideas into reality, gaining valuable skills along the way.
TMH Apprentices Ne’Vaeh Dudley, Danielle Haynes, James H. Harris, and Gavin O’Neal said that they began working on ideas for a militarythemed exhibit at Soldiers Memorial in fall 2021. Among the possible topics were LGBTQIA+ military history and military recruitment, according to O’Neal. Haynes said that the subject of veteran homelessness was inspired by a visit to Soldiers Memorial, where they observed a homeless encampment at nearby Poelker Park and recognized the relevance of the issue. In December they began researching the topic at MHS’s Library & Research Center (LRC) using old newspapers and reference books. Dudley said that they also did a lot of research online using the Veterans Affairs (VA) website and worked with St. Patrick Center.
Due to the pandemic and social distancing restrictions, many TMH meetings had to be held virtually, and the apprentices took turns visiting the LRC. In addition, they conducted a virtual oral history interview with a homeless veteran whom they met through St. Patrick Center.
Harris said that the group’s extensive research helped them break through stereotypes of homelessness. “Sometimes it’s more than just financial problems; sometimes it’s medical problems, especially with veterans who are returning from recent combat,” he explained. Haynes added, “You never really know what’s happening in someone’s life. You don’t know their stories. You don’t have to give [homeless people]
money. If you just walk up to them and give them some food, or just talk and have empathy with them, they’ll appreciate it a lot. As long as they know that someone cares for them, it’s going to help them.”
Haynes and Harris both cited the virtual oral history interview as the highlight of their experiences preparing the exhibit. “I enjoy sharing people’s stories that might not have been heard of or told much in history because they weren’t counted as the winner,” said Haynes. Harris also enjoyed the deep dive into “how far back veteran homelessness stems and how this problem has grown, and also how some organizations are trying to help with this.”
For Dudley, “that [highlight] moment hasn’t come yet. It will be opening day when we see all of our hard work come to life.” She added, “I hope this exhibit will break down some stereotypes of homelessness that people have. Veterans who are homeless are just people.”
Haynes concluded, “If one person just reads the panel and has a different mindset toward homeless veterans than when they came in, then I feel that’s something we’ll have accomplished.”
On July 16, at 11am, Soldiers Memorial will host an in-person panel discussion with the Teens Make History Apprentices who developed this exhibit. Admission to Soldiers Memorial Military Museum and this special exhibit is free. The display can be found in the Edward O’Hare Meeting Room on the upper level of Soldiers Memorial.
To learn more about Teens Make History, visit mohistory. org/learn/teen-programs/teensmake-history-academy.
Join the Saint Louis Art Museum in celebrating a recent acquisition titled Domenica delle Cascine, la Cecca di Pratolino, and Pietro Moro, by Flemish artist Justus Suttermans on view in Gallery 236. This stunning painting features Pietro Moro, (Peter the Black), a Black servant alongside two European female servants. As one of the few representations of a named Black figure in European art before the 1800s, the Suttermans portrait joins Melchior Barthel, Bust of a Black Man, in the same period collection. These acquisitions are part of the Museum’s initiative to increase its representation of a nonwhite, Black presence in Western European art. The painting, acquired in early 2021, is the second version of this work of art with the painting’s companion located at the Uffizi Gallery in Florence, Italy. Like too much of early history, very little is known about Pietro Moro. However, an individual with the term Moro was historically used as a designation of dark skin or African origin. Moro has been recorded as being within the Medici family’s inventories as well as in their account books for payments made to him. There also are two other surviving representations of Moro suggesting that he was placed in high regard within the Medici household.
In the Museum’s painting on view in Gallery 236, Pietro Moro stands out as the lead subject of the portrait, engaging with the viewer through his eyes and pose. The viewer sees Moro holding his hand in a gesture that would have been seen as humorous during 17th-century Florentine society as he reaches for something out of one of the women’s baskets, further adding to the engagement with the viewer. The portrait would have traveled with the Medici family and been put on display as a form of entertainment for the court as they engaged in the humor displayed in the image.
Moro is depicted with two female servants, Domenica delle Cascine and Cecca di Pratolino, offering viewers a rare view of individuals outside of nobility during the 1600s in Florentine Italy. This work is a classic display of the artist Justus Suttermans’ attention to detail, given the monumental status of the three servants in the painting. Suttermans was one of the official court painters in the Medici circles. The three stand full of expression with the two older women
depicted with wrinkles and glimmering eyes with thick fabric wrinkled from movement, the center figure’s red gown brings a pop of color to the portrait. In contrast, Moro stands with smooth, youthful skin and has two pearl earrings and a beautiful striped robe that stands out under the light. This new acquisition joins two other portraits from the vast Medici collection at the Saint Louis Art Museum; Portrait of a Lady, probably Camilla Martelli de’Medici by Alessandro Allori, and Francesco Salviati’s Portrait of a Florentine Nobleman. This new painting continues the Saint Louis Art Museum’s mission to collect, present, interpret, and conserve works of art of the highest quality across time and cultures; educates, inspires discovery, and elevates the human spirit. Please come see this extraordinary new acquisition, Domenica delle Cascine, la Cecca di Pratolino, and Pietro Moro, on view in Gallery 236.
Photo courtesy of mohistory.org
Teens Make History Apprentices at the Missouri History Museum.
Justus Suttermans, Flemsih, 1597-1681; Domenica delle Cascine, la Cecca di Pratolino, and Pietro Moro, 1634; Saint Louis Art Museum, Funds given by Opal and Arthur H. Meyer Jr., and Mr. and Mrs. John Peters MacCarthy, Oil on canvas 44:2021
Museum of the Bible honors icons of Black Church
Stirring speeches, performances
By Hamil R. Harris
The Washington Informer
The World Theater high atop the Museum of the Bible in Washington, D.C., was transformed into a spiritfilled sanctuary by many well-known names in the African American church during a filming of “Blessing of the Elders.”
During a June 23 event the museum honored seven iconic figures in the Black Church: Dr. John Perkins, Dr. A.R. Bernard, Dr. Tony Evans, Pastor Shirley Caesar, Bishop Charles E. Blake, Bishop Vashti McKenzie, and Bishop T.D. Jakes.
“Our hope for Blessing of the Elders is to honor – past and present – Black pastors who have impacted America with their significant ministry,” said Harry Hargrave, CEO of Museum of the Bible.
Several honorees turned acceptance speeches into stirring, and Marvin Winans played and sang, “Let the Church Say Amen!”
BeBe Winans and Erica Campbell served as hosts and sang. Wintley Phipps used his bass-baritone voice to sing, “Talk About a Child Who Loves Jesus.”
The program featured stirring selections by Fred Hammond, the Clark Sisters, Anthony Brown, Tremaine Hawkins, and the rapper Lecrae – artists reflecting the diversity within God’s family.
“The remarkable history of the Black Church in America demonstrates a biblical faith under pressure that should inspire people of any generation,” said Dr. A.R. Bernard, Blessing of the Elders Steering Committee chair, in a statement released.
“We are elated that the indelible mark of our community on the fabric of American society is finally being acknowledged.”
Rev. John M. Perkins, 92, is a civil rights activist, Bible teacher,
best-selling author, philosopher, and community developer who was first among the honorees.
As he received his medallion, he said, “What am I thinking about? The Black Church, the white church the Black church is the cornerstone
Bishop Charles E. Blake is one of seven Black Church icons who were honored at the “Blessing of the Elders” event at the Museum of the Bible on June 23.
Photo courtesy of L.A. Sentinel
the builder rejected.” Bishop Vashti McKenzie, the first woman named a bishop in the African Methodist Episcopal church, is now the interim president of the National Council of Churches.
As she walked in, she said, “This is a historic gathering of faith leaders primarily from the African America tradition and I am just excited to be part of the gathering.”
A distinguished cast of presenters participated including actor Denzel Washington, his wife Pauletta, John Hope Bryant, and Courtney B. Vance. Bishop Jamal Bryant, pastor of New Birth Baptist Church in Atlanta, paid
tribute to McKenzie, who broke the gender barrier in the AME church and showed, “There is a role for women beyond frying chicken and singing solos in the choir.”
McKenzie said, “I accept this award on behalf of all the women who were pushed to the margins of church culture.”
Caesar broke the color and gender barrier in the church and said, “God has allowed us to stand.” Then she shouted, “Jesus, I’m not ashamed to call his name. Jesus, there is power in his name.”
Bishop Jakes used the occasion to honor his grandfather Thomas Dixon Jakes, Sr., who drowned in Mississippi, June 9, 1928.
Jakes said his grandfather died on his lunch break after arguing with a mob at the plant where he worked. In his acceptance speech, Jakes said his grandfather didn’t have the same chances Black people have today.
“I’m safe to be here,” he said, urging, “let us march on.”
By James Washington
There has been much talk about the law in the last two weeks. The discussion must include God’s law. Have you ever wondered how a lawyer feels who knows his or her client is guilty of a crime, but is able to get that person off based on a legal technicality? According to our legal system, the person is
innocent. But actually, morally, that person is as guilty as, shall we say, sin.
This must have been one of the most important issues being debated by the traditional Jew of Christ’s time and those early Christians who chose to follow Him. This is probably the focal point of what got Him crucified and the focal point of many a debate today.
When Jesus was trying to get
TRYTHEYTHURSDAY
the Pharisees and the Sadducees to understand that the will of God was more important than the strict traditional interpretation of the Law of Moses, they were more interested in being right than being moral. Thus, you nullify the Word of God for the sake of your tradition.
“You hypocrites! Isaiah was right when he prophesied about you: ‘These people honor me with their lips, but their hearts are far from me. They worship me in vain; their teachings are but rules taught by men.” Matthew 15:6-9.
James Washington
Throughout the New Testament, Jesus tells us He is the fulfillment of the Law. He is the embodiment of God’s Word. He is the point, not the rule. The point of law is to protect the innocent, punish the guilty and thereby preserve the social and political order of man. Technicality or not, the law was never intended to let a murderer go free. The point of God’s Word is that Christ is indeed His Son, risen from the dead, who died for our original sin and through Whom we have
obtained everlasting life. Out of love and compassion for our fellow man, out of service in God’s name, out of honoring Him will we, too, fulfill our purpose here on earth. Law or no law, the Word of God was never intended to punish the pure of heart when acting on behalf of the Almighty. So, Jesus was constantly at odds with the religious scholars of His times (you know, church folk) about the literal interpretation of the Law of Moses versus the holy activities of serving the Lord. Hence his parables were constantly illustrating to those who would listen that, yes, you might be right, but according to the will
of God, what’s your point? Can’t you hear Jesus imploring the traditionalists with, “Okay! You’re right. Technically I shouldn’t be healing the sick, giving sight to the blind, feeding the hungry and teaching the gospel on the Sabbath. But what are you arguing about? Why are you so angry? I’m merely doing my Daddy’s will. It seems you’re more interested in being politically correct than you are in bringing the righteous closer to God. So what you gonna do, crucify me?” Play by the rules. But, remember, don’t ever forget the point.
Visit one of our Ys on Thursdays to enjoy all the benefits of being a member for the day FOR FREE!
Join a group fitness class, take a splash in the pool, shoot some hoops or check out the fitness center’s top-of-the-line equipment.
Get Help With Your Summer Natural Gas Bills
Summertime means kids home from school, outside fun, gathering with friends and visiting with grandparents.
And all summer long, natural gas provides the energy you need to:
• Help slow the spread of COVID-19 by washing your hands and clothes with warm water
• Cook healthy meals on your natural gas stove—even when the power is out
• Enjoy comfortable showers and baths
This summer, extra financial assistance is available to help with your natural gas utility bill for qualified families and individuals. So that means you can keep the energy you need all year long.
To learn more, contact the agency below.
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St. LouiS american
SOLICITING BID
Helix Realty is seeking proposals for bids for 28,000 sf of loft conversions. Scope of work includes Demolition. Carpentry, Drywall, Painting, Fire Protection, Plumbing, HVAC and Electrical and has diversity participation goal. Contact Stephen Levin 314 496-9150 slhelix@gmail
ANNUAL GIVING MANAGER
The St. Louis County Library is seeking applicants for a full time Annual Giving Manager. This position is responsible for the planning and developing of fundraising programs and marketing collaterals on behalf of the St. Louis County Library Foundation to enhance its mission to support the St. Louis County Library. A Bachelor’s degree and a minimum of five years fundraising experience or related customer relationship management experience is required. Must possess excellent communication and organizational skills. Salary: $63,440 plus paid health insurance and other benefits. Apply online at https://www.slcl.org/content/ employment Equal Opportunity Employer.
Please
resume to: stlca.resumes@courts.mo.gov detailed info at www.stlcitycircuitcourt.com, click employment opportunities. EOE
Bids & Public Notices
SOLICITING BID
K&S Associates, Inc. is soliciting MBE/WBE/SDVE/DBE/VBE for the following project for the Month of July 2022 – MU, Columbia –East Campus Utility Improvements for the New Veterinary Medicine Diagnostics Laboratory Building. Plans and Specs can be viewed at www.ksgcstl.com Please submit bids to Dennis Dyes estimating@ ksgcstl.com or Fax 314-647-5302
LETTING NO. 8751
7TH STREET IMPROVEMENTS FEDERAL PROJECT NOS. CMAQ5436(603) & STP-5436(604
Electronic bids submitted through the Bid Express Online Portal will be received by the Board of Public Service until 1:45 PM, CT, on AUGUST 2, 2022 then publicly opened and read. Proposals must be submitted electronically using “Bid Express Online Portal” at https://www.bidexpress.com/businesses/20618/home. Plans and Specifications may be examined on the Board of Public Service website http://www.stl-bps.org (BPS On Line Plan Room) and may be purchased directly through the BPS website from INDOX Services at cost plus shipping. No refunds will be made.
A pre-bid conference for all contractors bidding on this project will be held July 12, 2022 at 9:00 a.m The pre-bid conference will be held in 1520 Market Street, Suite 2000, Boardroom #278, St. Louis, Missouri 63103.
Bidders shall comply with all applicable City, State and Federal laws (including MBE/WBE policies).
All bidders must regard Federal Executive Order 11246, “Notice of Requirement for Affirmative Action to Ensure Equal Employment Opportunity”, the “Equal Opportunity Clause” and the “Standard Federal Equal Employment Specifications” set forth within and referenced at www.stl-bps.org (Announcements).
PUBLIC NOTICE
Notice is hereby given that the Metropolitan St. Louis Sewer District Requests for Quotes, Bids and Proposals are posted online for public download. Please navigate to www.msdprojectclear.org > Doing Business With Us > View Non-Capital Bids (commodities and services) or >Visit Planroom (capital construction bids) Metropolitan St. Louis Sewer District is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
At St. Louis Lambert International Airport
Electronic bids submitted through the Bid Express Online Portal will be received by the Board of Public Service until 1:45 PM, CT, on AUGUST 09, 2022, then publicly opened and read. Proposals must be submitted electronically using “Bid Express Online Portal” at https://www.bidexpress.com/businesses/20618/home. Plans and Specifications may be examined on the Board of Public Service website http://www.stl-bps.org (BPS On Line Plan Room) and may be purchased directly through the BPS website from INDOX Services at cost plus shipping. No refunds will be made.
A mandatory pre-bid conference for all contractors bidding on this project will be held July 19, 2022 at 10:00 a.m. The pre-bid conference will be held in Ozark Conference Room, 4TH Floor of the Airport Office Building, 11495 Navaid Rd., Bridgeton, MO 63044.
Bidders shall comply with all applicable City, State and Federal laws (including MBE/WBE policies).
All bidders must regard Federal Executive Order 11246, “Notice of Requirement for Affirmative Action to Ensure Equal Employment Opportunity”, the “Equal Opportunity Clause” and the “Standard Federal Equal Employment Specifications” set forth within and referenced at www.stl-bps.org (Announcements).
This is a non-exempt, supervisory position responsible for the maintenance, repair and preventive maintenance services of the Authority’s buildings, equipment and grounds. High school diploma and specialized training related to the repair of buildings/grounds; degree from a vocational school in construction trades is highly desired. At least 7 years of proven experience as maintenance supervisor or similar role. Professional Certifications (e.g., CMRP or HVAC certified) preferred. Starting Salary $55,000 Annually. Apply via our website www.slha.org Position will be open until filled. A Drug Free Work Place/EOE.
NOTICE OF ELECTION
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN by the Board of Election Commissioners for the City of St. Louis, State of Missouri, that a Primary Election will be held at the designated polling place for each precinct in the City of St. Louis, State of Missouri, on Tuesday, August 2, 2022, as certified to this office by the Honorable John R. Ashcroft, Secretary of State of the State of Missouri. The polls will be open between the hours of 6:00 A.M. and 7:00 P.M. for the purpose of nominating candidates for federal, state and municipal offices.
Pursuant to Section 115.389 of the Revised Statutes of the State of Missouri, the following list contains the name and address of each person who has filed in the office of the Secretary of State or the office of the Board of Election Commissioners for the City of St. Louis a written request to be included and is qualified to be voted on at the Primary Election to be held August 2, 2022, together with a designation of the office for which he/she is a candidate and the party he/she represents. The polls will be open between the hours of 6:00 A.M. and 7:00 P.M.
PRIMARY ELECTION
CITY OF ST. LOUIS, MISSOURI
TUESDAY, AUGUST 2, 2022
REPUBLICAN PARTY CANDIDATES FOR U.S. SENATOR (Vote for One)
Patrick A. Lewis 408 W. Locust Wellsville, MO 63384
Eric Schmitt 937 Brownell Ave. Glendale, MO 63122
Billy Long
3923 E. Glen Abbey Dr. Springfield, MO 65809
Eric Greitens 2334 Alpine Overlook Dr. Innsbrook, MO 63390
Bernie Mowinski 16 Kate Circle Sunrise Beach, MO 65079
C. W. Gardner
4398 W. Pine Blvd., #102 St. Louis, MO 63108
Deshon Porter 1610 N. Kingshighway, #8012 St. Louis, MO 63113
Vicky Hartzler
30218 S. Pleasant Ridge Rd. Harrisonville, MO 64701
Dave Sims 1401 NE 114th St. Kansas City, MO 64155
Mark McCloskey
4980 Willow Ford Road Robertsville, MO 63072
Eric McElroy
2421 St. Hwy. 73 Tunas, MO 65764
Dennis Lee Chilton
811 N. Cedarbrook Ave., #D1 Springfield, MO 65802
Robert Allen
3920 Benne Rd. Defiance, MO 63341
Dave Schatz
844 Sour Spring Trail Sullivan, MO 63080
Hartford Tunnell
19362 Hartsford Lane Carthage, MO 64836
Kevin C. Schepers
2542 Wyaconda Ct. Fenton, MO 63026
Rickey Joiner 2050 Krause Pl. Florissant, MO 63031
Robert Olson
3873 E. Washita St. Springfield, MO 65809-2936
Russel Pealer Breyfogle Jr. 608 Woodridge Dr. Columbia, MO 65201-6539
Darrell Leon McClanahan III 23650 Earhart Rd. Walker, MO 64790
Curtis D. Vaughn
1825 E. Republic Rd., Apt. 6404 Springfield, MO 65804
FOR STATE AUDITOR (Vote for One)
David Gregory 12820 Weber Hill Rd. St. Louis, MO 63127
Scott Fitzpatrick 118 Skyline Dr. Cassville, MO 65625
FOR U.S. REPRESENTATIVE DISTRICT 1 (Vote for One)
Steven Jordan
3721 Bates St. St. Louis, MO 63116
Andrew Jones
3911 McRee Ave. St. Louis, MO 63110
Laura Mitchell-Riley 11019 Mollerus, Apt. 210 St. Louis, MO 63138
FOR STATE SENATOR DISTRICT 4 (Vote for One)
Mary Theresa McLean 5206A Holly Hills Ave. St. Louis, MO 63109
FOR STATE REPRESENTATIVE DISTRICT 80 (Vote for One)
Kirk Hilzinger 5225 Fairview Ave. St. Louis, MO 63139-1335
FOR STATE REPRESENTATIVE DISTRICT 81 (Vote for One)
Jake Koehr 3946 Itaska St. St. Louis, MO 63116
FOR STATE REPRESENTATIVE DISTRICT 82 (Vote for One)
Robert J. Crump 3955 Jamison Ave., Apt. 1E St. Louis, MO 63109
FOR COLLECTOR OF REVENUE (Vote for One)
Robert Vroman 4105 Dressell Ave. St. Louis, MO 63120
FOR LICENSE COLLECTOR (Vote for One)
Michael Hebron 3134 St. Vincent Ave. St. Louis, MO 63104
FOR RECORDER OF DEEDS (Vote for One)
Timothy Garten 3417 Osage St. St. Louis, MO 63118
PRIMARY ELECTION
CITY OF ST. LOUIS, MISSOURI
TUESDAY, AUGUST 2, 2022
DEMOCRATIC PARTY CANDIDATES
FOR U.S. SENATOR (Vote for One)
Lewis Rolen 5912 Cates Ave. St. Louis, MO 63112
Gena Ross 13759 Post Oak Ln. Platte City, MO 64079
Carla Coffee Wright 4248 Enright Ave. St. Louis, MO 63108
Josh Shipp 7162 Hazelwood Ln. St. Louis, MO 63130
Spencer Toder 14 Enfield Rd. St. Louis, MO 63132
Lucas Kunce 302 N. Spring St., Apt. C Independence, MO 64050
Jewel Kelly 3215 Burning Tree Festus, MO 63028
Clarence (Clay) Taylor 2819 Miami St. St. Louis, MO 63118-3801
Pat Kelly 707 Creekbriar Ln. Kirkwood, MO 63122
Trudy Busch Valentine 100 Sunningdale Dr. St. Louis, MO 63124
Ronald (Ron) William Harris 11901 N. Illinois Ave. Kansas City, MO 64156
FOR STATE AUDITOR (Vote for One)
Alan Green 12365 Rocket Dr. Florissant, MO 63033
FOR U.S. REPRESENTATIVE DISTRICT 1 (Vote for One)
Ron Harshaw 3130 Brantner Pl., 1st Floor St. Louis, MO 63106
Michael Daniels 6001 Pershing Ave. St. Louis, MO 63112
Cori Bush 75 N. Oaks Plaza Northwoods, MO 63121
Earl Childress 1015 Wylin Ct. St. Louis, MO 63135
Steve Roberts 2735 Lafayette Ave. St. Louis, MO 63104
FOR STATE SENATOR DISTRICT 4 (Vote for One)
Karla May 800 Arlington Ave., Apt. 108 St. Louis, MO 63112
FOR STATE REPRESENTATIVE DISTRICT 76 (Vote for One)
Marlon Anderson 1556 Switzer Ave. St. Louis, MO 63147
FOR STATE REPRESENTATIVE DISTRICT 77 (Vote for One)
Kimberly-Ann Collins 4234 E. Lexington Ave. St. Louis, MO 63115
FOR STATE REPRESENTATIVE DISTRICT 78 (Vote for One)
Rasheen Aldridge Jr. 1408 Wright St. St. Louis, MO 63103
FOR STATE REPRESENTATIVE DISTRICT 79 (Vote for One)
LaKeySha Bosley 2947-B Delmar Blvd. St. Louis, MO 63103
FOR STATE REPRESENTATIVE DISTRICT 80 (Vote for One)
Peter J. Merideth 3542 Crittenden St. St. Louis, MO 63118
FOR STATE REPRESENTATIVE DISTRICT 81 (Vote for One)
Steve Butz 3823 Holly Hills Blvd. St. Louis, MO 63116
Bill Stephens 7119 Marwinette Ave. St. Louis, MO 63116-3035
FOR STATE REPRESENTATIVE DISTRICT 82 (Vote for One)
Donna M. C. Baringer 5942 Bishop Pl. St. Louis, MO 63109
FOR STATE REPRESENTATIVE DISTRICT 84 (Vote for One)
Del Taylor 5738 Etzel Ave. St. Louis, MO 63112
Wiley (Chip) Price 5330 Pershing Ave., Apt. 307 St. Louis, MO 63112
FOR COLLECTOR OF REVENUE (Vote for One)
Gregory F. X. Daly 4127 Upton Court St. Louis, MO 63116
FOR LICENSE COLLECTOR (Vote for One)
Mavis (Tessa) Thompson 3510 Dodier Street St. Louis, MO 63107
FOR RECORDER OF DEEDS (Vote for One)
Michael Butler 2910 Eads Avenue St. Louis, MO 63104
PRIMARY ELECTION CITY OF ST. LOUIS, MISSOURI TUESDAY, AUGUST 2, 2022
LIBERTARIAN PARTY CANDIDATES
FOR U.S. SENATOR (Vote for One)
Jonathan Dine 5119 NW 66th Terr. Kansas City, MO 64151
FOR STATE AUDITOR (Vote for One)
John A. Hartwig Jr. 7707 Davis Dr. St. Louis, MO 63105
FOR U.S. REPRESENTATIVE DISTRICT 1 (Vote for One)
George A. Zsidisin 25 Oak Park Dr. St. Louis, MO 63141
FOR STATE REPRESENTATIVE DISTRICT 80 (Vote for One)
Rebecca Sharpe Lombard 3912 Connecticut St. St. Louis, MO 63116
PRIMARY ELECTION CITY OF ST. LOUIS, MISSOURI TUESDAY, AUGUST 2, 2022
CONSTITUTION PARTY CANDIDATES
FOR U.S. SENATOR (Vote for One)
Paul Venable 1127 Van Buren St. Warsaw, MO 65355
PRIMARY ELECTION CITY OF ST. LOUIS, MISSOURI TUESDAY, AUGUST 2, 2022
GREEN PARTY CANDIDATES FOR RECORDER OF DEEDS (Vote for One)
Jerome H. Bauer 6036 Pershing Ave. St. Louis, MO 63112
Don DeVivo 4451 Swan Ave. St. Louis, MO 63110
We, the Board of Election Commissioners within and for the City of St. Louis, State of Missouri, do hereby certify that the above and foregoing is a true and correct list as certified to us by the Honorable John R. Ashcroft, Secretary of State of the State of Missouri, of the candidates for federal and state office, as well as candidates for municipal office, entitled to be voted for at the Primary Election to be held August 2, 2022.
IN TESTIMONY WHEREOF, we have hereunto set our hands and affixed our seal at the office of the Board of Election Commissioners in St. Louis, Missouri, this 15th day of June, 2022.
BOARD OF ELECTION
COMMISSIONERS FOR THE CITY OF ST. LOUIS
JERRY M. HUNTER
Chairman/Member
GERALDINE M. KRAEMER Member
DEREK WINTERS Member
(Seal) Attest: JOSEPH A. BARBAGLIA Secretary/Member
TOWER GROVE PARK RFQ
Tower Grove Park, 4257 Northeast Drive, St. Louis, MO 63110 is requesting qualifications for professional engineering and design services for new basketball courts. RFQ responses are due 7/19/22 by 1:00 p.m. Project information, registration and questions through Katie Aholt (katie@navigatebuildingsolutions.com or 636-359-8538).
Tower Grove Park hereby notifies all bidders that it will affirmatively ensure that in any contract entered into pursuant of this advertisement, businesses owned and controlled by socially and economically disadvantaged individuals will be afforded full opportunity to submit bids in response to this invitation and will not be discriminated against on the grounds of race, color, religion, creed, sex, age, ancestry or national origin in consideration for an award. Federal Land and Water Conservation Funds are being used in this project, and all relevant federal, state and local requirements apply.
BID NOTICE
Great Rivers Greenway is seeking bids for installation of new piping to existing bridge deck drain in St. Louis, MO. Go to www.greatriversgreenwy.org/jobs-bids to apply by July 29, 2022.
AUCTION NOTICE
The following people are in debt to Gateway Storage Mall. The contents of their storage unit(s) will be sold at auction to compensate for all or part of that debt.
Auction at Gateway Storage, Belleville- Royal Heights location will be held online with www.storageauctions.com Tuesday, August 2nd, 2022, at 10:00am CST. A cash deposit will be REQUIRED for all winning bids.
Gateway Storage, Belleville Royal Heights: A22—Cory Lee, B05— Tammy Williams, C04—Vernice Smith, D22—Kelvin Luster, E07—Yvette Peals, K08—Natasha Caldwell, K25—Jason Blair, K33— Danyaile Hopson
Auction at Gateway Storage, Tower Plaza and Mascoutah Avenue will be held online with www.storageauctions.com on Wednesday, August 3rd, 2022, at 10:00am CST. A cash deposit will be REQUIRED for all winning bids.
Gateway Storage, Belleville- Tower Plaza and Mascoutah Avenue: 21—Jennifer Allen, 22—Nikolas Tutza, 318—Nikolas Tutza, 633—Rachelle Russell
For all rules, regulations, and bidding process, please contact www.storageauctions.com. All other questions, please contact (618) 2338995 or mail: 17 Royal Heights Center, Belleville, IL, 62226
NOTICE REGARDING TREATMENT COURT COMMISSIONER VACANCY TO ALL ATTORNEYS RESIDING IN ST. LOUIS COUNTY, MISSOURI
The Circuit Court of St. Louis County, Missouri, announces that it is soliciting candidates for the position of Treatment Court Commissioner of the Circuit Court of St. Louis County.
The Circuit Judges will make the appointment for a term of (4) years, at an annual salary of an associate circuit judge, payable by the State of Missouri, pursuant to RSMo §478.003.
Missouri law requires the Treatment Court Commissioner(s) to possess the same qualifications as an associate circuit judge, including those set forth in the Missouri Constitution, Article V, Section 21, to wit, they must be qualified voters of the state, residents of St. Louis County, Missouri, at least twenty-five years old, licensed to practice law in Missouri; and possess all other qualifications as required by law.
(See RSMo Chapter 478).
Questionnaires and Candidate Instructions may be obtained by sending a resume and cover letter to St. Louis County Circuit Court, ATTN: Human Resources, 105 S. Central Avenue, Clayton, Missouri, 63105, or via email to SLCCourtJobs@courts.mo.gov
Completed questionnaires must be submitted in writing to St. Louis County Circuit Court, ATTN: Human Resources, 105 S. Central Avenue, Clayton, Missouri 63105, or via email to SLCCourtJobs@courts.mo.gov on or before June 30, 2022.
The appointment is scheduled to take place upon a vote of the Circuit Judges en banc on or about July 13, 2022. EOE. Please contact the Human Resources Department at 615-4471 (voice) or RelayMo 711 or 800-735-2966 if you need any accommodations in the application process, or if you would like this posting in an alternative form.
PUBLISHER’S NOTICE:
any such preference, limitation, or discrimination. “We will not knowingly accept any advertising for real estate which is in violation of the law. All persons are hereby informed that all dwellings advertised are available on an equal opportunity basis.”
Call Angelita Houston at 314-289-5430 or email ahouston@stlamerican.com to place your ads today!
BOARD OF PUBLIC SERVICE
REQUEST FOR QUALIFICATIONS for PROFESSIONAL DESIGN SERVICES FOR THE RECONSTRUCTION OF TAXILANE CHARLIE FROM TAXIWAY SIERRA TO TAXIWAY GOLF AT ST. LOUIS LAMBERT INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT. Statements of Qualifications due by 5:00 PM CT, July 26, 2022, at Board of Public Service, 1200 Market, Room 301 City Hall, St. Louis, MO 63103. RFQ may be obtained from BPS website www.stl-bps.org, under On Line Plan Room-Plan Room, or call Board of Public Service at 314-589-6214. DBE participation goal is 23.00%
ADVERTISEMENT FOR RFP
COMMUNITY-BASED SARS-COV-2 DIAGNOSTIC TESTING SERVICES
The City of St. Louis Department of Health seeks proposals for Community-Based SARS-CoV-2 Diagnostic Testing Services for city residents.
Requests for Proposals may be obtained beginning July 1, 2022, by downloading from the City of St. Louis website at www.stlouis-mo.gov/health. The deadline for submitting proposals is July 15, 2022, by 4:00 P.M., to Craig Schmid, 1520 Market Street-Suite 4051, St. Louis, MO 63103, in a sealed envelope following the guidelines within the RFP. Late or incomplete proposals will not be reviewed.
The Department of Health reserves the right to reject any or all responses with or without cause.
ELEPHANT MOAT MODIFICATION RFP 2022
The Saint Louis Zoo seeks bids from qualified firms to submit proposals for Elephant Moat Modification RFP 2022. Bid documents are available as of 7/6/2022 on the Saint Louis Zoo website: stlzoo.org/vendor
ADVERTISEMENT FOR BID
Goodwin/MMC Contractors JV, LLC is requesting subcontract bids and/or material quotations from qualifying minority and women-owned business enterprises for relevant phases of work for Metropolitan St. Louis Sewer District, Bissell & Lemay Fluidized Bed Incinerators, Contract Letting No. 12565-015.8. Interested parties should contact our office at (636) 931-6084. A pre-bid meeting for all interested MBE/ WBEs will be held virtually (contact for meeting link) and at our office at 4885 Baumgartner Road, St. Louis, MO 63129 at 8:00 am on Thursday, August 4th, 2022. Subcontractor/Supplier bids are due Friday, September 9th, 2022 at 5:00 p.m.
An Equal Opportunity Employer
LETTING NO. 8752
FOREST PARK BOWL LAKE PAVILION
Electronic bids submitted through the Bid Express Online Portal will be received by the Board of Public Service until 1:45 PM, CT, on August 9, 2022, then publicly opened and read. Proposals must be submitted electronically using “Bid Express Online Portal” at https:// www.bidexpress.com/businesses/20618/home Plans and Specifications may be examined on the Board of Public Service website http://www. stl-bps.org (BPS On Line Plan Room) and may be purchased directly through the BPS website from INDOX Services at cost plus shipping. No refunds will be made.
An optional pre-bid conference for all contractors bidding on this project will be held at onsite at the existing Seven Pools Bridge located at 5032 Clayton Avenue, St. Louis, MO 63110 at 10:00 AM on July 19, 2022. All bidders are encouraged to attend the pre-bid meeting.
Bidders shall comply with all applicable City, State and Federal laws (including MBE/WBE policies).
All bidders must regard Federal Executive Order 11246, “Notice of Requirement for Affirmative Action to Ensure Equal Employment Opportunity”, the “Equal Opportunity Clause” and the “Standard Federal Equal Employment Specifications” set forth within and referenced at www.stl-bps.org (Announcements).
SEALED BIDS
Bids for Replace Roof System, Multiple Assets, F a r m i n g t o n C o r r e c t i o n a l Center, Project No. C1922-01, will be received by FMDC, State of MO, UNTIL 1 : 3 0 P M , 7/28/2022 via MissouriBUYS. Bidders must be registered t o b i d . F o r specific project information, go to: http://oa.mo. gov/facilities
SEALED BIDS
Bids for Interior and Exterior LED Lighting Upgrade, Ike Skelton Training Site, Project No. T2128-01, will be received by FMDC, State of MO, UNTIL 1 : 3 0 P M , 7/28/2022 via MissouriBUYS. Bidders must be registered t o b i d . F o r specific project information, go to: http://oa.mo. gov/facilities
REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS
The World Trade Center-St. Louis solicits proposals from qualified firms with banquet facilities to host its annual “Growing Global” event, a regional international business forum with approximately 700 attendees to occur in September 2022. A five percent bid preference may be available to certified MBE firms. A copy of the RFP is available at https:// stlpartnership.com/rfp-rfq/ Submissions must be received no later than 3 PM CST on Friday, July 29, 2022.
St. Louis Economic Development Partnership Equal Opportunity Employer
INVITATION TO BID FERGUSON-FLORISSANT SCHOOL DISTRICT GRIFFITH ELEMENTARY/ VOGT ROOF REPAIR/ REPLACEMENT
Sealed bids for the above project are being requested from the FFSD and will be received and publicly opened on TUESDAY, JULY 26th 2022 @ 10:30 am CST at the Operation and Maintenance Dept. located at 8855 Dunn Rd. (REAR) Hazelwood, MO 63042. Pre Bid meeting will be held Tuesday July 19th at 200 Day Dr. Ferguson, MO 63135 (Griffith Elementary). Bid specs must be obtained at http://new.fergflor.k12.mo.us/ facilities-rfq. Contact Matt Furfaro at mfurfaro@fergflor.org for further information/questions.
ingly unbelievable plot builds to an improbable scene with Nadia, Marie and Patrick, the drama does intensify up to a fulfilling ending. A perfectly acted and crafted modern-day thriller with imperfect plotting.
Lovely Jackson
It’s a record no one wants.
Ex-inmate Rickey Jackson was incarcerated for 39 years for a murder he didn’t commit.
That’s purportedly the longest prison time anyone who has been wrongfully accused and convicted has ever served.
Director/cowriter Matt Waldeck and co-writer and film’s sub-
ject Jackson retell this injustice using Jackson’s personal experiences and anecdotes. A cast of younger actors reenact important moments filling in the cracks. They portray participants in a Cleveland convenience store robbery that resulted in the murder of a white money-order collector. Jackson was young when he was arrested, the police department railroad him, a weak star witness accused him, and eyewitness didn’t have the courage to clear his name. Curiously, the filmmakers use of dramatizations neither helps nor hinders. The most riveting part of this doc is Jackson himself. His metamorphosis from innocent kid to, young adult convict, to sage older man is a wonder. He’s in an amazing state of grace. Not embittered and philosophical about his life. The black
and Miss United States 2019, Alexia Robinson. One of the most valuable lessons she’s learned from them all is to stay true to yourself.
sacrifices to get to where I want to be. I’ll gladly do that and have these long days to see my vision and my dream come to life.” As expected McGhee has been actively learning a lot about herself through her new normal.
“I’ve learned I can push myself and focus whenever I really put my mind to something,” McGhee said. “I dive all in with no regrets, no hesitation, and no self-doubt. I think that’s one of the most beautiful transformations I’ve seen about myself. I’m getting back to this woman I’ve always wanted to be and learning to present myself and carry myself with lots of confidence.”
McGhee has not only learned a lot from herself, but she’s also learned lots from Forrest, her coach and former Miss Arkansas USA Kim Forsyth,
“It’s easy to point out when someone’s being fake, but always endearing when you’re around someone that’s unapologetically themselves,” McGhee said.
Some see women in pageants and in their regular lives thriving in their careers and may think they have it all, but sometimes what’s seen on the outside isn’t always what it appears to be.
Former Miss USA 2019, Cheslie Kryst, and Miss Alabama Zoe Sozo Bethel’s deaths’ shocked the world when it was discovered they died by suicide. In the middle of an ongoing COVID-19 pandemic mixed with daily life issues in general, one might wonder what keeps McGhee sane despite her peer’s recent mental health struggles. McGhee said her faith in God keeps her grounded, centered, self-aware and hopeful about life. She also stated her athletic
and white footage works as an artistic choice (cinematographer John Turk).
Jacques Brautbar’s entrancing musical score keeps you focused. The questionable reenactments are helped by Dred Geib’s production design, Annin Geib’s art direction and the costumes by Inda BlatchGeib and Sydney DematteisGeib.
At 1 hour and 44 minutes many viewers will get restless, not with Jackson but with the pacing and overabundance of facts (editor Mark Andrew Hamer) that aren’t always vital. For those who stick with this long- winded but worthy doc, there are missives about the resilience of life, forgiveness and suing those who’ve done you wrong that are worthy of examination.
To screen ABFF films, visit ABFFPLAY.com.
background has helped keep her together.
“I’m very aware of my body and the things I need to do to get in the best physical and mental shape to perform at my best,” McGhee said.
McGhee said she aspires to inspire young girls and older women who need to hear encouragement to help them keep going.
“It doesn’t matter how old you are or who you are in life if you don’t have the tools or means to do something you know you can figure out,” McGhee said.
Details are still pending for the date and location of Miss USA 2022.
“I’m grateful for the love and support people have been sending me in their presence, from afar, on Instagram, and Facebook,” McGhee said. “I want St. Louis to be represented in a positive light and to be a role model, and voice for my community on the big stage.”
McGhee’s next goal after competing is to return back to broadcasting, and create and host her own game show.
Gilliam
Continued from C1
Museum of Modern Art in New York
Gilliam’s work and legacy lives on in the collections of several major art institutions around the world, including Tate Modern in London, the Musée d’Art Moderne in Paris, the National Gallery of Art, Washington, DC, the Baltimore Museum of Art, and the Art Institute of Chicago, Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art in Arkansas and the Saint Louis Art Museum.
Best known for his brilliantly stained drape paintings, Gilliam transformed his medium into three-dimensional forms before any predecessors of his generation. Often criticized for not depicting humans in his work, he suspended unstretched canvases from the ceiling or gathered it in curves and loops like the work on view at the Saint Louis Art Museum titled Half Circle Red.
Half Circle Red is an example of Sam Gilliam’s signature technique of pouring paint directly onto a canvas. He then balled and tied up the canvas letting it dry creating a bold, vibrant surface. Later, he uncrumpled the canvas and cut it into shapes that he combined on the wall without a frame.
This work, now on view at SLAM, is supported by a series of push pins. Consequently, his organically constructed painting drapes, with small gaps, and bulges emphasizing the true test of time the properties of his materials possess.
“I gotta leave something here that’s a lot better than I found it. You leave something of value, you have to create some hope. I’m good at that.” said Sam Gilliam in a 2018 interview for the Louisiana Museum of Modern Art.
The St. Louis-born Ronald Ollie, who died in 2020, collected works by Gilliam and other African American abstract artists. Ollie and his wife, Monique McRipley Ollie, gave SLAM the Thelma and
Bert Ollie Memorial Collection, which includes several treasured works by Sam Gilliam dating as early as 1993, including Half Circle Red Those wishing to remember Sam Gilliam’s local contribution are encouraged to visit the Saint Louis Art Museum to view his artwork, Half Circe Red currently on view in gallery 258. You can also view the Museum’s 2022 Juneteenth Celebration; a virtual talk Art Speaks: But You See Me, available on SLAM’s YouTube channel and the Romare Bearden Takeover, available on Instagram.
Gilliam is survived by his second wife, Annie Gawlak; three daughters from his first marriage, Stephanie, Melissa and Leah; three grandchildren; and three sisters, Lizzie Jane, Lillie and Clenteria. Sam Gilliam was committed to dismissing the pressure to make popular work by producing art that commanded presence as a way to contribute to the legacy of art history instead of reiterating the fractured narratives of America.
Shaka Myrick is the Romare Bearden Graduate Museum Fellow, 2021- 2023
FRIDAYS ON ART HILL 6 PM PARTY STARTS 9 PM SHOWTIME
THE ART HILL FILM SERIES IS BACK!
Bring a blanket and join us on Art Hill on Friday nights in July to celebrate the return of this iconic summer event for the first time since 2019. The party starts at 6 pm with music, food trucks, a cash bar, and other activities. Films will start at 9 pm. Visit slam.org for more information.
Sponsored by
Sam Gilliam, American, born 1933; Half Circle Red , 1975; acrylic on canvas; 78 x 33 x 6 inches; Saint Louis Art Museum, The Thelma and Bert Ollie Memorial Collection, Gift of Ronald and Monique Ollie 189:2017a,b; © Sam Gilliam / David Kordansky Gallery